102525 - Los Angeles Edition

USCIS launches new US citizenship test

Applicants filing after October 20 face longer, tougher civics exam

WAshiNGtoN, D.c. — the U.s citizenship and immigration services (Uscis) has officially launched a new version of the U.s. citizenship civics test, which took effect on october 20, 2025, for applicants filing their form N-400 on or after that date. the new exam is part of the agency’s broader effort to “enhance the consistency, integrity, and fairness” of the naturalization process.

Uscis launched a new U.s. citizenship civics test on october 20, 2025, featuring 20 oral questions from a 128-question bank and a higher passing threshold. the change marks the most significant update to the naturalization exam in nearly a decade and affects all applicants moving forward.

Under the new guidelines, applicants will answer up to 20 oral civics questions randomly drawn from a 128-question study bank. to pass, they must answer 12 questions correctly. interviewers will stop once the applicant either passes or fails, based on

Californians urged to vote as Secretary of State highlights access and safeguards

cALiforNiA secretary of state Dr. shirley Weber is urging residents to make their voices heard in the upcoming November 4 special election, emphasizing secure ballot access, multilingual assistance, and sameday registration as key features of california’s voter-friendly system.

speaking at an oct. 21 briefing organized by American community media, Weber recalled her family’s own voting history as a reminder of how hard-won this right remains for many communities.

My ancestors never got a chance to vote— not because they didn’t have the right, but because of the difficulty of being able to register,” Weber said. Having your voice, having the ability to vote, having it accessible, making it available to so many, is really important.” Voting in the Nov. 4 special election the November ballot features a single measure, Proposition 50, which would temporarily allow the california Legislature to redraw congressional districts, bypassing the

flood-control projects in La Union and Davao occidental, secretary Vince Dizon announced on thursday, october 23.

ICI probe on Liza Marcos based on hearsay

Malacañang dismissed as hearsay a citizen’s request for the Independent Commission for Infrastructure to investigate First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos over alleged ties to flood-control projects, calling the complaint a “fishing expedition” lacking evidence

mANiLA — malacañang has rejected calls to include first Lady Liza Araneta-marcos in the ongoing flood-control investigation, describing the request before the independent commission for infrastructure (ici) as a “fishing expedition based on hearsay.” Press secretary Atty. claire castro said

Leylah Fernandez claims her fifth career title at the Japan Open

Leylah Fernandez, the Filipina-EcuadorianCanadian tennis star, wins her fifth career WTA title at the Japan Open in Osaka after a three-set victory over Czech teenager Tereza Valentova

by AJPress

osAKA, Japan — canadian tennis star Leylah Annie fernandez, captured her fifth career WtA singles title at the 2025 Kinoshita Group Japan open in osaka after defeating 18-yearold czech qualifier tereza Valentova in a thrilling three-set final, 6-0, 5-7, 6-3. the 23-year-old left-hander from montreal, known for her

during a Palace briefing that the complaint submitted to the ici lacked any proof linking the first lady to alleged irregularities in government infrastructure contracts.

The attachments do not show any link between the first lady and any anomalous project,” castro said. “it appears to be pure hearsay.”

As Quiboloy case advances, court rejects hospital plea and prepares for key witness testimony

the legal battle surrounding Apollo Quiboloy, founder of the Kingdom of Jesus christ (KoJc), is gaining momentum as the Pasig regional trial court denied his request for hospital arrest and prosecutors prepare to call former police chief Nicolas torre iii as a state witness in the widening trafficking and abuse case. Court denies hospital arrest request the Pasig regional trial court Branch 159 rejected Quiboloy’s plea to be transferred to a private

hospital, ruling that his medical care while in detention remains sufficient. the order, dated october 8 and made public this week, stated that there was “no compelling reason” to grant hospital arrest.

Quiboloy will continue to be held at camp crame, where he has been detained since september 2024 on multiple counts of human trafficking, sexual abuse, and exploitation. the court noted that his current detention facility has the necessary medical staff and equipment to address his

to reassume Senate Blue Ribbon chairmanship in November, Sotto

by AJPress

when the senate reconvenes on monday, November 10, 2025. sotto described Lacson’s return as “100 percent certain,” saying committee members are set to meet ahead of or immediately after the break to formalize his

ICC rejects Duterte’s jurisdiction challenge

by Cristina Chi Philstar.com

mANiLA — the international criminal court has ruled that it has the jurisdiction to prosecute former President rodrigo Duterte for alleged crimes against humanity, rejecting his argument that the Philippines’ withdrawal from the rome statute in 2018 stripped the icc’s authority over the case. this defeats the Duterte camp’s main legal attempt to prevent an actual trial from taking place — leaving only the question of whether the former president, who has been held at the hague since march, is fit to stand trial.

in a ruling released thursday, october 23, the icc Pre-trial chamber i unanimously dismissed Duterte’s legal challenge, finding that the icc prosecutor’s preliminary examination launched in february 2018 — before the Philippines’ withdrawal took effect — was sufficient to preserve the court’s jurisdiction over Duterte’s alleged crimes. the chamber “finds that the Court can exercise its jurisdiction in the present case over the crimes alleged against Mr Duterte that were committed on the territory of the Philippines while it was a State Party,” the decision read. the chamber had determined

DPWH names 22 officials...

proyektong ito makikita natin to be either ghost or substandard, ang DPWH po will be filing the verified complaint para po mas mapabilis ‘yung proseso.

(“We agreed that if these projects are found to be ghost or substandard, the DPWH will file the verified complaint to speed up the process.”) the complaints were filed with

LOS ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY (LACMTA) REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

LAcmtA will receive Proposals for Ps136596 - one car challenge Pilot (Phase 2) solicitation submitted electronically via email to bids@metro.net

A Virtual Pre-Proposal conference will be held on monday, November 3, 2025, at 10:30 a.m., online meeting: microsoft teams Join the meeting now meeting iD: 222 420 071 598 1 Passcode: f5Qc9Lg2

All Proposals must be submitted via email to bids@metro. net, on or before 2:00 p.m. Pacific time on monday, November 17, 2025. time of receipt is determined by the date/time stamp imprinted upon the email system. it is recommended that proposers send their email(s) allowing for sufficient time to ensure that the proposer can meet the proposal's due date. Additionally, it is recommended that proposer's email(s) are sent with a Delivery and read receipt for their records. Lastly, proposers should send a verification email to the named contract Administrator of the rfP after the email submission(s) of proposal to bids@metro.net. for a copy of the Proposal/Bid specification visit our solicitation Page on our Vendor Portal at https://business.metro.net or for further information email rohan Anderson at andersonr3@ metro.net. 10/25/25

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AsiAN JoUrNAL (L.A.)

the office of the ombudsman in coordination with the independent commission for infrastructure (ici), created by President ferdinand marcos Jr. in september through executive order No. 94. Respondents named in official filing

According to documents submitted by the DPWh and published by the Philippine News Agency, those charged include engineers, section chiefs and administrative professionals in the La Union 2nd District engineering office and the Davao occidental District engineering office, along with two contractors. La Union 2nd District Engineering Office: Gil Lorenzo • Raul Gali • Mario Laroya • Ethel Guerrero • Joseph Delizo • Christian Eduria • Albemar Elloise Estipular • Nestor Sibayan • Aries Graciano Novencido • Jose Perez • Zyrah Marie Estipular • Dan G. Ginete • Marivic Manalo • Silverwolves Construction corp. (represented by moises tabucol & Alvin Diego) Davao Occidental District Engineering Office: Rodrigo C. Larete • Michael Awa • Joel Lumogdang • Harold Villaver • Jafaeil Faunillan • Josephine Valdez • Ranulfo Flores • Czar Ryan Ubungen • St. Timothy construction corp. (represented by ma. roma Angeline rimando and/or cezarah rowena Discaya) the complaints cite violations of republic Act 3019, the Anti-Graft and corrupt Practices Act, and Articles 217 and 220 of the revised Penal code. Project records show combined allocations of approximately P276 million. two La Union phases were valued at about P89.7 million each, while several Davao occidental works total roughly P96.5 million. Validation reports described the works as non-existent or sub-standard. Asset freeze and widening inquiry the Anti-money Laundering council (AmLc) issued freeze orders covering around P5.2 billion in assets linked to the flood-control probe. the assets include bank deposits and real property under preventive hold while investigators trace links to public-works contracts.

DPWh has initiated administrative dismissal proceedings against officials who approved or imple-

mented the questioned contracts. the National Bureau of investigation (NBi) is assisting with vetting for potential conflicts of interest among senior engineers. secretary Dizon said that suspects “may be jailed before Christmas”, subject to approval by the ombudsman and the Department of Justice. Additional case files transmitted by the ici include one legislator identified as a “person of interest” in relation to allocations in Northern Luzon. officials emphasise that the status does not imply guilt, but ensures full scrutiny of public-fund flows.

ICI audit and transparency push the independent commission for infrastructure is conducting a nationwide audit of infrastructure projects, reviewing more than 8,000 flood-control projects to date, with over 400 flagged for further inspection. chair Justice

Andres reyes Jr. said the commission “plans to livestream hearings” as part of its transparency drive, while it finalises protocols with the commission on Audit and regional DPWh offices.

Accountability and next steps

secretary Dizon affirmed the DPWh’s strengthened commitment to transparency in infrastructure spending: “The department’s role is to ensure that projects exist, are built according to standards, and that any anomaly is addressed through proper legal channels. the flood-control investigation has drawn national attention over reports of ghost projects—declared complete but found non-existent—and sub-standard construction. Parallel investigations are under way by the senate Blue ribbon committee and the ici

Under Philippine law, public officials found guilty of graft or malversation face dismissal from service, perpetual disqualification from public office, and imprisonment.

observers say the coordination between the DPWh and the ici signals a shift toward institutional accountability, built on documentation, evidence and due process.

As the ici opens its hearings, the DPWh’s cooperation is seen as critical to restoring public confidence in infrastructure programmes and ensuring that taxpayer funds are used for genuine, functional projects that benefit communities. n

USCIS launches new US citizenship...

those thresholds. the english reading, writing, and speaking portions of the interview remain unchanged.

What’s different

Previously, applicants were asked 10 questions drawn from a 100-question bank, with six correct answers required to pass. the new format restores and updates features first introduced in 2020, which were later suspended following feedback from educators and immigrant advocates.

Uscis said the changes

are meant to “better measure applicants’ knowledge of U.s history, government, and civic principles.” Applicants 65 years or older who have been lawful permanent residents for 20 years or more will still take a shorter version: 10 questions from a 20-question list, with six correct answers required.

Advocates express concern community and immigrantservice organizations have voiced concern that the new test could pose challenges for applicants with limited english

or time to study. many are calling for additional support and translated study materials to help test-takers adjust. What applicants should know Uscis emphasizes that the filing date determines which test applies. those who filed before oct. 20, 2025, will still take the earlier version. Applicants are urged to use official Uscis study resources and begin preparing early, since the civics portion remains an oral interview without multiplechoice options. (AJPress)

Californians urged to vote as Secretary of State...

state’s independent citizens-redistricting commission until 2030. supporters say the plan would offset partisan shifts created by new maps in texas.

As of oct. 20, about 2.4 to 2.5 million ballots had already been returned, according to state ballot-return trackers. every active registered voter has received a mail-in ballot, which can be mailed, placed in an official drop box, or turned in at a polling place by 8 p.m. on Nov. 4—the legal deadline for all california elections.

Weber reminded voters who mail ballots on election Day to visit the post-office counter to ensure a dated postmark and emphasized the security of official drop boxes.

These are like tanks made of steel, bolted to the ground. The only way to access them is with a key,” she said.

Locations of official ballot-drop sites are available at caearlyvoting.sos.ca.gov

Same-day registration still available eligible californians who missed the oct. 20 registration deadline may still register and vote at their polling place on election Day. they will cast a provisional ballot, which is counted once eligibility is verified. california is among more than 20 states that permit sameday or conditional registration to vote. to register, voters may provide information such as a driver’s license or state iD and the last four digits of their social security

number to verify eligibility. According to a california research Bureau report presented to the state senate elections committee in August 2025, voter fraud remains exceedingly rare, with only 10 confirmed cases statewide between 2020 and 2024.

Expanded access for diverse voters california’s Voter Bill of rights guarantees that voters may receive language or physical assistance when needed. state election materials are available in nine languages beyond english - spanish, chinese, hindi, Japanese, Khmer, Korean, tagalog, thai, and Vietnamese - with additional translations provided when census data show significant local demand. Availability may vary by county, in accordance with federal and state law. translating complex ballot measures, Weber noted, is not something you can just Google.” Voters may also receive help from friends or family members in filling out their ballots, though employers and union representatives are prohibited from offering such assistance.

Court decision expected to set precedent for future elections the U.s supreme court is deliberating Louisiana v. callais, a redistricting case that could redefine how states interpret and apply section 2 of the Voting rights Act of 1965, which bars voting practices that discriminate on the basis of race or color.

Legal analysts say a ruling, expected by June 2026, could

influence how future electoral maps are drawn across the country, determining whether federal protections for minority voters remain as strong as they have been for nearly six decades. A narrower reading of section 2 could alter the political balance in several states. for california officials like secretary Weber, the pending case underscores the continuing importance of accessibility, representation, and public trust in elections, values she described as the foundation of democracy that every generation must defend.” Why every election counts Weber urged californians not to waste their opportunity to participate in shaping policies that directly affect their lives. she reminded voters that democracy depends on consistent participation, not only during presidential contests but in every local, state, and special election. Your vote is your voice,” she said. Weber said every election involves issues that shape daily life—from schools and safety to housing and the environment. When citizens stay home, she noted, they surrender their influence to others who show up; voting, on the other hand, strengthens the collective voice of communities and ensures that diverse experiences are reflected in policy decisions.

“The ability to vote,” she added, is something our parents and grandparents dreamed of. We honor them when we use it.” (AJPress)

Lacson to reassume Senate Blue Ribbon...

re-election.

Lacson’s October resignation occurred amid probe tensions Lacson stepped down as Blue ribbon chair in early october, submitting a letter dated october 7, 2025, after expressing frustration with how the committee’s inquiry into alleged irregularities in flood-control projects under the Department of Public Works and highways (DPWh) was being handled.

in his statement released on october 5, he said he was stepping down “out of respect for the sentiments of some colleagues.” sotto later clarified that the resignation was not aimed at preserving the senate leadership.

During the interim, senator erwin tulfo, the committee vicechair, served as acting chair. Minority bloc pledges cooperation under Lacson’s leadership senate minority Leader Alan Peter cayetano pledged support for Lacson’s return, saying the minority bloc will work with him “in the spirit of cooperation and transparency.” he emphasized that the minority will not be drawn into majority internal leadership battles and that “what matters is that the direction of the inquiry is clear and the process remains fair.” Committee to resume flood-control probe under Lacson’s chairmanship the Blue ribbon committee— tasked with investigating alleged public-official wrongdoing in aid

of legislation—has been probing contracts tied to flood-control infrastructure, which have drawn scrutiny for suspected implementation and accountability gaps. sotto said the panel will resume hearings when Lacson is re-elected chair. he added that the committee will coordinate with the independent commission for infrastructure (ici), which has announced plans to livestream its proceedings to bolster transparency. As the senate resumes on November 10, the Blue ribbon committee is expected to hold its first post-recess meeting to formally elect Lacson as chair, after which subsequent hearings will include DPWh officials, contractors, and auditors. Lacson earlier clarified his goal is to recommend structural and policy reforms, not target criminal prosecutions, and that

Palace: ICI probe on Liza Marcos based...

Citizen’s letter to ICI the request stemmed from a letter sent by a private citizen identified in news reports as John santander, urging the ici to investigate supposed ties between Araneta-marcos and businessman maynard Ngu, who has been mentioned in reports related to flood-control contracts.

the ici confirmed that it has received the letter and that it remains under preliminary review. No formal investigation or summons involving the first lady has been issued.

“Any request will undergo the same process of evaluation. There must be documentary basis before any formal investigation,” ici chair retired Justice Andres reyes Jr. said in a statement. the ici, created under executive order No. 39, was formed to review irregularities in major infrastructure and flood-control projects, in coordination with the Department of Public Works and highways (DPWh) and the office of the ombudsman.

Palace questions motives

castro also questioned the in-

tent behind the complaint, calling it “a nuisance action meant to insert the first lady’s name into unrelated issues.”

The first lady is a lawyer. She knows the value of evidence and due process,” castro added, stressing that the first lady holds no official role in infrastructure policy or implementation.

malacañang further noted that government funds are managed by implementing agencies subject to commission on Audit (coA) oversight, making the al-

legations “without procedural or documentary grounding.” ICI transparency measures Amid mounting public attention on its work, the ici announced that it will livestream its hearings beginning this week to strengthen transparency and public confidence in the handling of infrastructure corruption cases. the commission’s initial investigations center on questionable flood-control projects identified by the DPWh and ombudsman as either “ghost” or substandard, involving billions of pesos in public funds.

No formal investigation launched to date, no formal ici probe has been launched involving first Lady Liza Araneta-marcos, and no public evidence has been produced linking her to the disputed contracts. the Palace has maintained that the allegations remain unsubstantiated and purely speculative.

Legal analysts note that how the ici handles politically sensitive referrals will serve as an early test of its independence and the administration’s commitment to accountability in public spending. n

Leylah Fernandez claims her fifth career...

1

fiery competitiveness and calm under pressure, secured her second title of the 2025 season, following her earlier triumph at the Washington D.c open. the win elevates her to world No. 22 and reestablishes her as canada’s top-ranked women’s player, surpassing compatriot Victoria mboko.

Dominance, grit, and grace on display fernandez opened the final with authority, storming through the first set 6-0 in less than 30 minutes. Valentova, one of the tour’s most promising teenagers, struck back in the second set, capitalizing on brief lapses from fernandez to force a decider. in the third set, fernandez broke early and never looked back, sealing victory in just over two hours — a testament to her stamina, patience, and tactical maturity.

“First of all, congratulations, Tereza — you played amazing, fernandez said during her trophy speech. “thank you to my team for suffering with me this past week, past month, and past year. Without your sacrifices

and support, i wouldn’t be here today. her heartfelt message drew applause from the osaka crowd, many of whom have followed her journey since her breakout run to the 2021 Us open final.

A proud multicultural identity Born in montreal, Quebec, Leylah is the daughter of Jorge fernandez, a former ecuadorian soccer player who now serves as her coach, and irene exevea fernandez, a canadian of filipino descent from cavite. the tennis prodigy often credits her parents’ immigrant values of hard work, humility, and resilience for shaping her character. “My mom’s Filipino side taught me to stay kind and grounded no matter how big the stage,” she shared in an earlier interview. her heritage – filipino through her mother, ecuadorian through her father, and canadian by birth – has made her a beloved figure across three continents. filipino fans, in particular, take pride in seeing her raise the Philippines profile in the sport alongside canada’s whenever she competes in Asia.

A victory that strengthens

Asia’s tennis spotlight the Japan open, a WtA 250 event held at osaka’s Utsubo tennis center, has long been a proving ground for emerging champions. fernandez’s triumph reinforces the tournament’s growing prestige and highlights Asia’s role as a vibrant hub for world-class tennis. for runner-up tereza Valentova, the week marked a career milestone – reaching her maiden WtA final after a string of strong wins over higher-ranked opponents.

A champion with momentum

With her osaka title, fernandez builds crucial momentum heading into the final stretch of the WtA season. Analysts expect her to make deeper runs in the upcoming high-tier events and return to the top 20 soon.

Beyond rankings, however, fernandez continues to represent something deeper – a multicultural athlete who embodies discipline, gratitude, and perseverance. her success story bridges continents and cultures, reminding young athletes everywhere that excellence thrives where identity is embraced. n

The forgotten architect of farmworker solidarity

Before César Chávez became the face of America’s farmworker movement, Filipino organizer Larry Itliong had already led hundreds to strike for dignity in California’s grape fields.

Decades later, from Delano to Pangasinan, his family and community are ensuring his story is finally told

by AJPress

DeLANo, california – in the fertile heart of california’s central Valley, the story of America’s farmworker movement is usually told through one name. most remember césar chávez, the soft-spoken crusader who marched through Delano’s vineyards for justice. But long before the movement became a national symbol, another leader had already lit the fuse of solidarity: a filipino organizer named Larry itliong, whose call for fairness helped change the landscape of American labor.

Born modesto Dulay itliong on october 25, 1913, in san Nicolás, Pangasinan, when the Philippines was still under U.s rule, he arrived in America at 15, chasing the promise of education and opportunity. What he found instead were the harsh realities of hard labor in asparagus fields, salmon canneries, and railroad camps across the West. those years forged a creed that never left him: no one’s work should come at the expense of their dignity.

By the 1930s, itliong had become a fixture in the labor scene, helping organize filipino cannery workers who later formed iLWU

Local 37, one of the first predominantly Asian-Pacific unions in the country. Gruff, sharp-witted, and unafraid to speak truth to power, he once said, “Because in that Constitution, it said that everybody has equal rights and justice. You’ve got to make that come about.”

The Delano turning point in may 1965, as head of the Agricultural Workers organizing committee (AWoc), itliong led filipino grape pickers in the coachella Valley to strike for fair pay. on september 8, 1965, more than 800 filipino farmworkers in Delanowalked off the fields, demanding an end to poverty wages.

itliong knew the strike could not last without allies. he turned to césar chávez and Dolores huerta of the National farm Workers Association (NfWA), urging them to join. on september 16, after days of debate, the NfWA voted unanimously to stand with their filipino counterparts, creating one of the first major interracial labor alliances in U.s. history.

By 1966, the two groups merged to form the United farm Workers (UfW), with itliong as assistant director. their five-year boycott of california grapes drew support from churches, students, and consumers across the country. By 1970, the strike had won landmark contracts guaranteeing higher wages, rest breaks, and health benefits, victories that redefined the rights of agricultural laborers nationwide.

The fight beyond the fields for itliong, justice went beyond wages. many of his filipino peers, known as the manong generation, were aging bachelors who had spent decades living in crowded labor camps, isolated by immigration laws and racial barriers. itliong fought to give them dignity in their later years. his vision led to the creation of Agbayani Village, a retirement community built by volunteers on UfW land in Delano’s forty Acres. the village still stands today, quiet among the vineyards, as a living monument to solidarity.

Yet within the UfW, itliong grew disillusioned. he believed filipino workers were losing influence in the union they helped create. in 1971, he resigned but continued his advocacy until his death in february 1977 from ALs, at age 63.

The missing chapter in the decades that followed, itliong’s name faded from the mainstream narrative. textbooks celebrated chávez and huerta but

rarely mentioned the filipino men who first walked off the fields. scholars later described it as a failure of movement memory, a simplification of complex coalitions into single heroic figures. for filipino Americans, reclaiming itliong’s story became an act of justice.

A legacy reclaimed that reclamation began to take shape in 2015, when Governor Jerry Brown signed Assembly Bill 7, declaring october 25 as Larry itliong Day in california. every year since, state leaders, including Lt. Gov. eleni Kounalakis and Gov. Gavin Newsom, have reaffirmed the observance and urged schools to include filipino farmworkers in labor history curricula. the city of carson became the first to hold a local celebration, featuring student contests, cultural showcases, and lectures by Johnny itliong, Larry’s son. other communities, including Los Angeles, Delano, stockton, and san José, soon followed with their own tributes. in san José, filipino American organizers have been campaigning to rename a downtown walkway “Larry itliong Way”and to install a large mural at san José state University, expanding the geography of remembrance.

Painting history back into view Public art has helped keep itliong’s image alive. in Los Angeles’s historic filipinotown, artist eliseo Art silva’s mural Gintong Kasaysayan, Gintong Pamaná (A Glorious history, A Golden Legacy) has, since 1995, depicted filipino heroes, itliong among them, across 150 feet of vivid color at Unidad Park. Now one of the largest filipino American murals in the United states, it serves as both monument and classroom. in 2021, silva carried that vision home. At the request of itliong’s youngest daughter, Patty itliong serda, he painted a new mural on the library wall of morningside elementary school in Delano, where she works as librarian. students joined in, transforming their campus into a living tribute to the labor leader who once walked their town’s dusty roads.

From California to Pangasinan

Nearly half a century after his death, itliong’s hometown has taken up his memory. on october 25, 2024, san Nicolás, Pangasinan, where he was born, held its first Larry itliong Day in the Philippines following a municipal ordinance passed the previous year. the celebration was organized by the filipino school, operating as the filipino story studio, which raised tax-deductible funds for student programs, including a speech contest themed after itliong’s 1965 rallying cry: Di Ka Pasisiil” or “Never Give Up.” following its success, organizers scheduled the celebration to return on october 24–25, 2025, positioning Larry itliong Day Philippines as an annual hometown tradition that connects the youth of Pangasinan with filipino Americans abroad and brings the movement’s spirit full circle from california’s vineyards back to the soil where itliong was born.

Family and future

While murals preserve his image, Johnny itliong carries his father’s words across campuses and community halls, reminding audiences that the Delano movement was built not by one man but by many hands across cultures. his advocacy, along with the children’s book Journey for Justice: the Life of Larry itliong and the work of the filipino American National historical society, has restored his father’s place in America’s labor story.

A lasting lesson Larry itliong’s story endures as both lesson and testament. Progress, he proved, is never the work of a single figure. it is the sum of countless quiet acts of courage. he believed that solidarity across race and language was not idealism but survival, and that equality, once promised, must be defended in every generation. As grapes ripen again in the san Joaquin Valley and murals in Los Angeles and Delano glow under the sun, his presence lingers not as a relic of the past but as a reminder that the struggle for dignity is a harvest still being gathered. n

Trump calls off San Francisco deployment as California readies statewide legal defenses

Mayor says the White House scrapped plans to send federalized forces to the city, while Newsom and Bonta warn they will sue immediately if any troop deployment targets San Francisco or the broader state

by AJPress

sAN frANcisco — the White house has backed away from a planned federal deployment to san francisco, the city’s mayor said, even as california officials kept their legal teams on alert for any renewed attempt to send federalized forces into the

As Quiboloy case advances, court rejects...

condition.

Next hearing set for December 11 the court also scheduled the next hearing for December 11, 2025, marking a shift from procedural motions to substantive trial proceedings. Prosecutors from the Department of Justice are expected to present additional witnesses and evidence supporting charges filed under the Anti-trafficking in Persons Act and related laws.

Torre among key witnesses

former PNP chief Nicolas

torre iii has been identified by prosecutors as a state witness whose testimony may help clarify investigative findings in the case. his participation signals the government’s intent to strengthen its evidence through credible law-enforcement sources. Legal analysts say torre’s appearance, once scheduled, could lend institutional weight to the prosecution’s narrative and help establish the pattern of conduct alleged by former members of Quiboloy’s ministry. Case enters critical phase

Beyond the Philippine pro-

ceedings, Quiboloy also faces indictments in the United states for sex trafficking, bulk-cash smuggling, and fraud—charges he continues to deny as politically motivated. observers note that the convergence of domestic and international prosecutions represents an uncommon moment of accountability for a once-powerful religious leader whose influence spanned politics, media, and faith communities. the coming months are expected to determine whether the case finally moves toward full trial. n

ICC rejects Duterte’s jurisdiction...

that the Philippines’ withdrawal from the treaty that governs the icc “shall not [...] prejudice in any way the continued consideration of any matter which was already under consideration by the Court prior to the date on which the withdrawal became effective.” Legal battle over withdrawal the ruling centers on whether the Philippines’ withdrawal from the rome statute — which took effect march 17, 2019, one year after manila deposited notification — severed the court’s jurisdiction over crimes allegedly committed on Philippine territory.

Duterte’s defense team argued the icc lost jurisdiction when the chamber authorized the investigation in september 2021, more than two years after the withdrawal became effective. they contended that Article 12(2) of the statute requires a state to be a party “at the time that the Court exercises its jurisdiction.” the defense further argued that a preliminary examination was too informal to constitute a matter “under consideration by the court,” describing it as “internal, informal and non-justiciable” and potentially constituted by “even the most mundane acts.

the chamber firmly rejected those arguments, finding that preliminary examinations are “a statutory process which is a necessary precondition to seeking authorisation for the commencement of an investigation” regulated by Article 15 of the rome statute and rules 46-50 of the court’s procedural rules.

The preliminary examination is not ‘too informal in nature’ to encompass a matter that is ‘under consideration’ by the Court,” the decision stated.

‘Direct relationship’ to withdrawal the icc Pre-trial chamber i also took note of the “direct relationship” between then-icc Prosecutor fatou Bensouda’s announcement of a preliminary examination in february 2018 and the Philippine government’s subsequent decision to withdraw from the rome statute — a decision that was done by then-President Duterte. that announcement of the preliminary examination had explicitly stated that it would look into the crimes committed by Duterte since at least July 2016 in the context of the “war on drugs” campaign. the Philippines deposited its withdrawal notification on march 17, 2018, just over a month later. media reports at the time cited Duterte calling icc and UN scrutiny of his drug war campaign as outrageous attacks.” “This apparent action to avoid compliance with the Statute is what article 127 of the Statute, read as a whole, is designed to prevent,” the decision read. the court found that interpreting the statute to allow withdrawal to shield crimes already under examination “would be entirely against that object and purpose” and “go directly against the object and purpose” of preventing states from evading justice.

Scope of court’s authority the ruling established that the term “the court” in Article 127(2) includes the office of the Prosecutor, one of four organs of the icc alongside the judicial divisions, the Presidency and the registry. the chamber noted that the same sentence in Article 127(2) states withdrawal “shall not affect any cooperation with the Court in connection with criminal investiga-

tions and proceedings,” cooperation that includes requests by the prosecutor.

It is the Prosecution that would be expected to be considering matters that form the subject-matter of preliminary examinations and investigations,” the decision stated. the icc found that preliminary examinations can involve substantive judicial decisions, protection measures for victims and witnesses under Article 68(1), public announcements, and what the prosecution described as “an active and focused inquiry leading to a specific legal conclusion.”

Balancing withdrawal rights and accountability the chamber acknowledged that ordinarily, once a state’s withdrawal becomes effective, it is “no longer bound by the Statute’s jurisdictional provisions.” Allowing jurisdiction decades after withdrawal would “fundamentally undermine the right of a State to withdraw.” however, Article 127(2) “appropriately balances the right of a State to withdraw from the Statute with the overall objective of the Statute of putting an end to impunity,” the ruling stated. the court emphasized that its finding does not mean every preliminary examination would preserve jurisdiction, noting that each situation will need to be analyzed on its merits” and must be “approached with utmost caution to avoid any abuse.” the confirmation of charges hearing has been postponed pending resolution of questions about Duterte’s fitness to stand trial. Duterte is facing three counts of crimes against humanity of murder over the brutal and deadly “war on drugs” during his presidency and the years he was mayor of Davao city. n

Trump calls off San Francisco deployment...

on the Posse comitatus Act, which bars the federal military from performing domestic law enforcement absent specific authorization, and on narrow exceptions in the insurrection Act that impose factual and procedural thresholds. in september, Bonta announced a federal court ruling that found prior trump administration use of troops in Los Angeles violated the Posse comitatus Act, a decision california is using as a roadmap in new challenges. the Newsom administration has also taken action beyond san francisco’s city limits. earlier in october, california joined oregon’s suit to block a federal plan to deploy 300 california National Guard personnel into Portland, arguing the move defied a district court’s order and exceeded federal authority. the governor’s office highlighted filings seeking emergency relief to prevent redeployment of federalized Guard units. together, these steps signal that any similar attempt to send federalized forces into Los Angeles, san Diego, sacramento, or smaller communities would trigger the same immediate le-

gal response. state lawyers say they are prepared to seek temporary restraining orders within hours, pressing Posse comitatus and constitutional claims and demanding that the administration meet insurrection Act prerequisites if it claims that authority.

What changes on the ground

With the Guard deployment to san francisco called off for now, state and local agencies are focusing on the presence of federal agents and on protecting residents’ rights during any immigration operations. city officials say cooperation remains limited by state and local laws that restrict assistance with civil immigration enforcement, and that routine coordination with federal criminal agencies continues through established channels.

Business and civic leaders who had pressed for public safety solutions said the pause averts an immediate escalation but does not resolve underlying policy disputes over how to address crime and drug markets. city officials maintain that policing should remain a local and state responsibility, and that using military forces to “police our communities” is

both unlawful and counterproductive. Deployment paused, but California braces for next move trump’s decision to call off a san francisco deployment lowers the temperature in the Bay Area, but california’s broader legal posture stays the same. if federalized troops are ordered into any california city for civilian law enforcement, the state says it will move to court immediately. in the meantime, local authorities are bracing for continued immigration enforcement activity while emphasizing residents’ rights and public safety. n

OPiniOn FeAtures

Filipino American History Month and the journey from colonial classrooms to community

EvEry October, Filipino American History Month is marked across the United States to honor more than four centuries of Filipino presence in America. Introduced by the Filipino American National Historical Society (FANHS) in 1988 and officially recognized by Congress in 2009, the observance commemorates the arrival of the first documented Filipinos in Morro Bay, California, in October 1587.

that arrival took place during the manila–Acapulco galleon trade, a maritime route that linked Asia, the Americas, and europe for over two centuries. the Philippines, which came under spanish colonial rule in 1565, remained under spain for more than 333 years until 1898, serving as a vital hub of its trans-Pacific empire. filipino sailors, known as Luzones Indios or Manilamen, worked aboard spanish galleons carrying silk, porcelain, and spices from manila to Acapulco, mexico, and silver on the return voyage. some reached the coast of california, then under spanish control. in october 1587, one such vessel, the Nuestra señora de esperanza, anchored off what is now morro Bay, where filipinos became the first Asians to set foot in what would later become the United states.

Editorial

is was signed on December 10, 1898, through which spain ceded the Philippines, Guam, and Puerto rico to the United states for 20 million dollars. the sale of the Philippines, concluded without the consent of its people, ended more than three centuries of spanish rule and began nearly fifty years of American colonization. the new regime brought an education system patterned after that of the United states, the use of english, and a generation molded by American ideals.

Colonial classrooms and American imagery

By the late nineteenth century, spain’s empire was in decline, and revolution was taking hold in the Philippines. After the U.s. Navy’s victory in the Battle of manila Bay, the treaty of Par-

public lives

The struggle of man against power is the struggle of memory against forgetting,” wrote the czech novelist milan Kundera. forgetting has always been one of our nation’s gravest afflictions. We forget the abuses and excesses of power even when their traces still haunt our daily lives. We keep electing the same bad leaders, conveniently overlooking that the clans and classes they represent have long been our tormentors and plunderers. Yet it’s pointless to blame the victims. our amnesia stems not from ignorance or weakness, but from a distorted understanding of democracy. We equate democracy with mere majority rule—as though the will of the people were automatically sovereign once ballots are cast and counted. But elections are not free when millions vote under the shadow of extreme poverty, hunger, and dependence. in a society where the gap between rich and poor is as wide as ours, democracy is routinely captured by those who com-

At the turn of the twentieth century, following the Philippine-American War, American teachers known as the thomasites established a public-school system modeled after the United states. english became the medium of instruction, and values such as discipline, democracy, and merit were taught as universal truths. in textbooks filled with unfamiliar faces and

mand both money and muscle. the result is a form of governance built on patronage and coercion—an arrangement so normalized that it now feels inevitable. seen in this light, forgetting begins to make a certain sense. remembering can be risky. During the Duterte years, many poor families chose to erase from memory the killings of their loved ones—if only to avoid further harassment. forgetting became their defense mechanism, a way to survive the reign of fear. the same logic explains why financially distressed voters still run to the same corrupt politicians for help with hospital bills, dialysis slots, and other needs. this dependence is not their choice. it is embedded in a system that withholds essential rights to food, health, shelter, education—except through the intercession of politicians. When survival depends on the goodwill of one’s patrons, silence about their corruption and abuses becomes the price of access.

i once thought that sen. Bong Go’s malasakit centers offered

a way out of this feudal cycle. i was mistaken. these Department of health desks merely map the labyrinth of patronage, pointing the poor to politicians who control hospital funds. they simplify dependence but do not abolish it. still, for the poor, that small measure of help feels like service. Gratitude replaces rights. this deeply entrenched culture of connection is hard to dismantle. it runs through the veins of daily life. When we transact with government, the first question we ask is: Who do i know there? We tell ourselves this is not necessarily to cut the line but only to guard against extortion. either way, the system endures, sustained by our distrust and our penchant for shortcuts. And yet, there is hope. “Be the change you seek,” says the familiar injunction. i find that more and more young filipinos are taking it seriously. they queue patiently. they recoil from open displays of privilege. they “cancel” their peers for flaunting wealth or entitlement. But they also demand accountability from their elders—

Demand and

Boo Chanco

someoNe once said that no country can progress if its politics is more profitable than its industries...in a country where those in government are richer than entrepreneurs, they manufacture poverty. the meme i saw didn’t say who said these words. But whoever he or she is, no truer observation has been made about our situation. indeed, even the late president ferdinand marcos was supposed to have told BBm who wanted to be a scientist that “mahirap ‘yung science, hindi ka yayaman diyan.” BBm said his father did not live to see the multi-billionaires of silicon Valley who built multi-billion-dollar business empires on the back of science and technology.

Unfortunately, most of our people think like BBm’s father… entering politics or working in government is the path to riches. And this belief is reinforced daily with social media posts of “nepo” babies flaunting the fruits of their parents’ ill-gotten

wealth. even at the lower socio-economic levels, kids aspire to become policemen because they can see that our law enforcers are never hungry, live good lives and exercise power over them. No wonder a bachelor’s degree course in criminology is the most popular course thereabouts.

Being elected to congress is almost a foolproof guarantee that your net worth will escalate beyond your wildest dreams, if your conscience is dead. Now that the sALNs are once again available for public inspection, someone should make a study to see how the economic status of our elected officials blossomed.

recent surveys reveal how filipinos have become jaded about corruption. in other words, we have become exhausted, dulled or cynical because corruption now defines us.

A Pulse Asia 2025 Ulat ng Bayan survey found 97 percent of respondents saying corruption in government is widespread. some 90 percent agreed there is collusion among our officials, legislators and contractors to steal from the taxpayers. Pulse Asia also found out people think corruption is “essentially universal” not only at the

national level (95 percent) but also in each geographic and socio-economic subgrouping (95100 percent).

octA research found out that most filipinos are angry and outraged over corruption in DPWh infrastructure projects.

octA’s sept. 25 to 30 survey showed that 60 percent of the respondents selected anger or outrage as the primary emotion that best described their reaction to the issue. Another 30 percent said they were fearful or anxious, while nine percent selected sadness or sorrow. only one percent said they felt hope or optimism as various government agencies started investigating the horrible acts of corruption involving ranking government officials. Angry as most of us filipinos say we are, a World Values survey revealed that only three in 10 filipinos believe bribery is “never justifiable.” this makes the Philippines one of the most tolerant countries toward bribery in Asia. Just 30.6 percent of filipino respondents outright rejected bribery – much lower than in indonesia (70.4 percent), thailand (69.9 percent), or high-capacity states like Japan (81 percent) and sin-

it so happened that our module on existential psychotherapy coincided with the students’ “hell week,” when requirements start piling up. for first-year students, this is also when the novelty of being in graduate school wears off. this is overtaken by the sheer exhaustion of juggling both school and work, not to mention trying to maintain some semblance of a social life. During high-pressure situations, i notice students start to take shortcuts. they make practical trade-offs, sacrificing one requirement for another. they also start forgetting their original intention of why they chose this path to begin with, seeing school tasks as drudgery and something merely to get past. it is not surprising that learning absorption is poor, and the experience of not learning anything contributes to their sense of overwhelm, sometimes

leading to despair and wondering if this is the right career for them.

it was the perfect opportunity to apply the existential perspective, which deals with existential givens of death, meaninglessness, isolation, and freedom. i asked them what they fear happening—and losing—if they continue to spend energy on their lessons. i also asked them to sit with the choices they have made without rushing to rationalization or justification. An important concept in existential psychotherapy is the belief that people ultimately have the freedom to make their own choices. these choices may be difficult. the options may be limited. Nevertheless, they are your choice to make. Not choosing is also a choice. intertwined with freedom, however, is responsibility. You cannot have one without the other. As much as you are free to decide, you are also responsible for the consequenc-

es of those decisions. this makes freedom an uneasy given in life, and not a few disavow it: “I was forced to do it.” “I had no choice.” “If you didn’t do that, I wouldn’t have done this.” in therapy, personal responsibility is an essential element for positive outcomes. it is a misconception that therapy supports the client in blaming others (usually the parents) for their suffering. Good and ethical therapy recognizes that the client must take personal responsibility for their choices and behavior in life. You may not have had control over what happened to you, but you do have control over how you respond to life’s challenges. in the broader sphere, we see this tension play out. Nobody would openly admit they want less freedom for themselves, yet many are also hesitant to take personal responsibility for their lives. there are people who vote for less individual freedom,

DHAKA — the well-known proverb “the pen is mightier than the sword” perhaps needs redefining in today’s world, as social media has emerged as the mightiest of all. these platforms have spawned a vast number of so-called “influencers” who operate without formal accountability, thriving on their ability to deepen divisions and sharpen antagonisms. they often recklessly blend lies with half-truths, distort facts, misquote others, and cherry-pick data to suit their purposes. And here lies the real danger—the blurring of lines between professional journalism and influencer content—which has become one of the most disruptive developments of the digital age. this failure to distinguish between professional journalists and self-styled influencers has left the public vulnerable to

manipulation. in particular, assembling a mob for political or personal gain has become one of the most alarming phenomena in Bangladesh today. Professional journalists working for newspapers and broadcast channels—those who painstakingly verify facts, exercise editorial judgment, and adhere to professional ethics—are losing ground in the battle for truth. in contrast, influencers are driven by an insatiable hunger for popularity, likes, and content-generated income, sometimes twisting facts or spreading lies to suit their agenda. shockingly, quite a few people having years of experience in journalism have also senselessly sacrificed ethical standards for cheap popularity or political ambition.

Bangladesh, where media literacy among the general popu-

lace is still quite low, has thus become fertile ground for the cultivation of hatred. Politicians, artists, cultural figures, and media personalities all remain at risk of being targeted for online harassment. rather than fostering healthy debates or meaningful counterarguments, the widespread practice is to brand opponents with derogatory labels, distort information, or unleash vulgar language. in Bangladesh, facebook and Youtube are the primary battlegrounds for such attacks, while globally, X (formerly twitter) plays the leading role. the destructive power of social media is not unique to Bangladesh: in 2018, United Nations investigators concluded that these platforms helped incite ethnic hatred against the rohingya in myanmar, contributing to what

Filipino American History Month and the...

changing seasons, filipino children encountered a version of childhood far from their own.

Among the most enduring images were red apples and slices of apple pie, drawn with such precision that they seemed to carry the scent of autumn.

Apples were not native to the Philippines. they grew in colder climates and appeared only in imported tins or as gifts from abroad. Yet in American storybooks, they symbolized home, warmth, and the sweetness of an orderly life. for children raised under the tropical sun, these images depicted a world of calm abundance that existed elsewhere—a sweetness they could see but not taste. over time, such imagery shaped their notions of civility, progress, and aspiration. sweetness seemed to belong somewhere else, on the other side of the world.

Education and migration: A continuous journey from those classrooms emerged a people who saw education as both inheritance and salvation. Learning became the path to advancement, first through the pensionado scholars who studied in American universities, and later through the doctors, nurses, teachers, and engineers who carried their skills across oceans in search of

opportunity.

What began as a colonial program evolved into a national pattern of migration. By the mid-twentieth century, filipinos had become one of the most educated and mobile immigrant groups in the United states— fluent in english, disciplined in work, and driven by ambition. the ideals first taught in colonial classrooms became the language of mobility and the measure of success. Yet this journey also carried the lingering mark of colonial mentality: the belief that achievement required validation from the West. for many, arriving in America felt like stepping into the storybooks of youth. But experience soon revealed a harder truth: dignity is not inherited, and belonging cannot be bought.

Redefining sweetness for filipino Americans today, the story has come full circle. What began in imitation has become a process of redefinition. the first laborers who toiled in the plantations of hawaii, the canneries of Alaska, and the farms of california laid the foundation for later generations who would excel in education, medicine, business, and the arts. the filipino American story runs through every part of American life. it thrives in hospitals, classrooms, churches,

boardrooms, studios, and city halls. Yet visibility remains uneven. filipino Americans make up one of the largest Asian populations in the United states but remain among the least represented in national narratives.

filipino American history month calls attention to that absence. it reminds us that history is cumulative, that the lessons once taught in colonial schools have been reshaped by experience, perseverance, and self-definition. it honors the past not as nostalgia but as grounding, urging every generation to look backward with understanding and forward with confidence.

Apples and apple pie, once distant symbols of American sweetness, now serve as reminders of how far the filipino story has traveled. filipinos have taken what was once foreign—language, learning, and labor—and transformed it into self-determination, achievement, and purpose.

sweetness is not imported. it grows wherever people reclaim their story and teach the next generation to see beauty through their own light. in rediscovery lies pride. in pride lies the strength of what filipino American history month ultimately celebrates: the enduring work of becoming whole.

(AJPress)

Follow the money

gapore (81.7 percent).

At the other extreme, 7.9 percent of filipinos said bribery is “always justifiable,” the highest rate in the region. that’s how filipinos go on survival mode dealing with bureaucratic red tape and patronage politics favored by political dynasties. indeed, public service has become a family business in many places in the country.

Politics has been our country’s major industry, reason enough why the economy has failed to keep up with our regional peers. our political activities do not contribute to GDP growth. on the contrary, money stolen through ghost projects, with the resulting opportunity cost, reduces our GDP.

Just following the money tells us what our people value most. that’s why our situation is near hopeless.

We can’t even advocate strongman rule to make a drastic change in our society. the last time we tried a dictatorship with BBm’s father, things got worse because the business of the government got intertwined with the business of mr. marcos and his cronies.

the economic impact of our failure to make our officials accountable for corruption is significant. investors are staying away because no one can do business in a country where officials up to the barangay level have a price. that’s what a failed state is. suspension of classes one other thing that’s so destructive is the penchant of our officials to suspend classes without good reason. this week, Deped suspended classes in public schools for two days supposedly due to prevalence of flu-like symptoms. if we are in the middle of an epidemic, and it seems we are, two days won’t make a difference. Doh also denies there is an epidemic. then the province of Laguna suspended classes for two weeks supposedly because of the possibility of an earthquake on the West Valley fault. that’s simply stupid because no one can predict when an earthquake will happen. in Laguna, 13 school days were cancelled from July to september 2025. this recent pronouncement cancelling classes from oct. 14 to 31, 2025 adds another 14 days, or a total of 27

days. this is around 30 percent of the total school days from June to october 2025. this is very excessive and seriously harms the education, current well-being and the future of the children. the policy of shifting to online or alternative learning modality is not effective. most schools do not have this option, and the learning outcome is very much inferior. studies show that online learning is only 37 to 52 percent as effective as face-toface learning. these class cancellations have undoubtedly contributed to very poor learning outcomes where the Philippines scores lower than Palestine (which has been at war) and Papua New Guinea.

We must get serious about our problems and not aggravate our current crisis through thoughtless decisions. (Philstar.com)

*

The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.

* * * Boo Chanco’s email address is bchanco@ gmail.com. Follow him on X @boochanco PAGE 6

Drawing the line between influencers...

many recognize as genocide. in

2021, a lawsuit was filed against facebook’s parent company, meta, for failing to prevent incitement of violence against the rohingya. of course, social shaming as a trend is not new. But strikingly, those most frequently targeted are not black marketeers, corrupt bankers, nor food adulterators, for instance, as one might expect. instead, political rivals and public figures often face the brunt of orchestrated campaigns. Just as the Awami League had become a fascist party by often calling for the total annihilation of their political opponents, now we are witnessing the emergence of another group of people who have started to act in the same way to eliminate their rivals.

in this volatile context, the government’s response has been far from satisfactory. it has failed to prevent troublemakers, provocateurs, and criminals, particularly those driven by or operating on social media, al-

though quick arrests were made in a few cases, such as the rape and murder of a child in magura and the brutal murder in mitford. the government appears not to be paying sufficient attention. some critics even allege that it is deliberately ignoring these provocations—an accusation many of us would rather not believe. still, inaction is no longer an option. While no one expects an interim government to shut down the internet or suppress free speech, it is internationally recognized that governments bear the primary responsibility for curbing online hatred and incitement to violence. Yes, regulating social media is undeniably complex, given that these platforms are run by multinational corporations. Yet governments around the world have already imposed billion-dollar fines, forcing companies to adopt stricter policies against the circulation of harmful content. so, Bangladesh must follow suit, and urgently. it must hold these companies

6

When the young refuse to...

from us, who have seen too much and perhaps grown too cynical. they are not weighed down by the fatigue of old struggles or the disappointments of failed reforms. their anger is raw, urgent, and undiluted. that is why so many of today’s uprisings, whether in our country or abroad, are youth-driven. their protests are born in social media and then spill into the streets. the internet is their public square. their fight, too, is the struggle of memory against forgetting, of defiance against the dull weight of resignation. in 2013, many of us marched

PAGE 6

accountable, compel them to act against hate speech or manipulated content, and ensure that the digital space does not remain a breeding ground for hatred. Ahead of the 2026 election, holding social media platforms accountable is paramount. regulating social media is not about curbing freedom of expression; it is about safeguarding society from manipulation, division, and violence. the cultivation of hatred must not continue unchecked. (Inquirer.net/The Daily Star/Asia News Network) The Philippine Daily Inquirer is a member of the Asia News Network, an alliance of 22 media titles in the region.

against the pork barrel scandal known as the Priority Development Assistance fund racket. it sent Janet Napoles, the impresario of fake NGos, to prison, and briefly jailed three senators. But all except Napoles are now free, and the old order of congressional entitlements not only survived but became worse. today, as the flood-control scandal unfolds, we can’t help fearing a replay. Yet something feels different this time. the outrage coursing through social media is not just about the brazen plunder of public funds. it is about the shameless display of ill-gotten wealth—the influ-

encer lifestyle of power. this anger has its own momentum; it

Freedom and personal responsibility

such as electing authoritarian regimes, so that they can pass off responsibility to leaders. People blindly comply with rules so they can blame the rules and the rule makers.

We see this happen in current events. for example, nobody is forced to participate in corruption. they simply chose to play the game. the earlier defense of the Discayas during the senate hearings, as rebuked by sen. risa hontiveros, was that they felt they had no choice but to pay kickbacks. she reminded them that they could have chosen not to profit from such rigged government contracts, yet chose to do so.

this also applies to regular citizens when it comes to making use of fixers or offering bribes to get out of a traffic violation. Would it be terribly inconvenient to go through the process of paying the fines and attending seminars? Yes. is it much easier than contesting a traffic ticket? Yes. And it is our choice to choose convenience or expediency over doing what is right.

the Duterte family’s insistence that former President rodrigo Duterte was merely “kidnapped,” refusing to acknowledge that he was arrested by law enforcement, is another example. “Kidnapping” highlights only what is done to the person, with the assumption that the person was not personally responsible for their kidnapping. An arrest, however, would imply that the person has done something to warrant the arrest. it thus makes sense that the Dutertes keep insisting on

their narrative to ensure their father’s escape from personal responsibility for the crimes of humanity allegedly committed during his administration. the narrative disconnects his actions from the consequences of his actions. Without this important context, they are able to paint the former president as a victim or martyr to his supporters. the senate resolution urging the international criminal court to place the former President under house arrest completely ignores his personal responsibility as well and only emphasizes his freedom. there is no

tion whatsoever of the crimes

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DAteline PhiliPPines

DOJ wraps up probe, submits missing sabungeros case for resolution

by AJPress

mANiLA — the Department of Justice (DoJ) has formally submitted for resolution the complaints against businessman charlie “Atong” Ang, actress Gretchen Barretto, and several others in connection with the disappearance of 34 cockfighting enthusiasts (sabungeros) between 2021 and 2022. Justice officials confirmed that the preliminary investigation has concluded following the filing of counter-affidavits by Ang and Barretto. Prosecutors will now determine whether there is probable cause to bring the case to trial.

DoJ spokesperson mico clavano said the panel received voluminous submissions from all parties, including the 18-inch-thick counter-affidavit filed by Ang on october 17, which contained documentary and video evidence questioning the credibility of complainant Julie “Dondon” Patidongan. The case is now under evaluation. We have to weigh the sufficiency of evidence before any filing in court,” clavano said.

Ang’s lawyer, Atty. Gabriel Villareal, maintained that the defense evidence disproves the accusations and requested the DoJ to refer the matter back to the PNP–ciDG for an impartial case buildup. Ang’s camp also filed counter-complaints in mandaluyong city against Patidongan and others for alleged extortion and false testimony.

Case background the sabungeros case stems from the disappearance of 34 men between April 2021 and January 2022, all last seen attending cockfighting derbies in Laguna, Batangas, Bulacan, and manila. the incidents, believed to be linked to illegal e-sabong (online betting) operations, sparked public outrage and senate inquiries.

Authorities later discovered hundreds of skeletal remains around taal Lake, though foren-

sic teams have yet to find DNA matches connecting them to the missing men. the DoJ has subpoenaed over 60 individuals, including financiers, security personnel, and law enforcement officers, as part of the broader investigation.

Families renew calls for justice relatives of the missing sabungeros welcomed the DoJ’s progress but urged prosecutors to hold accountable those behind the disappearances, regardless of their status or influence.

their lawyers said they remain hopeful that the DoJ panel will recommend the filing of murder, kidnapping, and enforced disappearance charges against the respondents.

DOJ faces key decision on fate of high-profile case

With the case now under review, the DoJ panel is expected to release its resolution within weeks. if probable cause is established, formal criminal charges will be filed in court; otherwise, the case may be dismissed or referred for further investigation.

the “missing sabungeros” probe remains one of the most high-profile tests of the justice system’s ability to ensure due process, forensic accuracy, and accountability in politically sensitive cases. n

Ombudsman drops bid to oust Villanueva; Palace, lawmakers seek probe of ‘secret’ 2019 reversal

Ombudsman Remulla halts move to dismiss Sen. Joel Villanueva after learning of a 2019 ruling by ex-Ombudsman Martires clearing him, as Malacañang and lawmakers push for a probe into the described “secret decision.”

by AJPress

mANiLA — ombudsman Jesus crispin “Boying” remulla said he will no longer ask the senate to enforce the 2016 dismissal order against senator Joel Villanueva after discovering a previously undisclosed 2019 ruling by then ombudsman samuel martires that cleared Villanueva of administrative liability. the revelation, which remulla described as a “secret decision,” has prompted renewed calls for transparency and accountability. malacañang has directed the appropriate offices to review the matter, while several lawmakers and watchdogs are urging a formal probe into how the 2019 decision, reversing a high-profile anti-graft ruling, went unpublicized for years.

Discovery of a ‘secret’ 2019 ruling remulla told reporters that his office had already drafted a communication to the senate asking it to implement Villanueva’s dismissal. however, upon review of case files, officials found a 2019

resolution issued by martires that granted Villanueva’s motion for reconsideration.

the resolution effectively reversed the 2016 order of former ombudsman conchita carpio-morales, which had found Villanueva guilty of grave misconduct and serious dishonesty over the alleged misuse of P10 million in his 2008 Priority Development Assistance fund (PDAf).

morales’ ruling ordered Villanueva’s dismissal from public office and perpetual disqualification from government service, but the senate, invoking its constitutional prerogative, did not enforce the penalty at that time.

Martires and Villanueva insist reversal was not hidden martires, who served as ombudsman from 2018 to 2025, rejected claims that the 2019 decision was “secret.” he said the resolution was properly recorded and released to relevant offices. Villanueva likewise maintained that he has no pending administrative or criminal cases before the ombudsman or the sandiganbayan, calling the issue a “closed chapter.”

“There was no secret decision,” martires said in a radio interview. “Everything was done in accordance with the process.”

Palace orders review amid transparency concerns Presidential communications secretary cheloy Garafil confirmed that malacañang has

Trillanes

called for a review of the 2019 reversal to determine whether proper protocols were followed. officials are expected to clarify who was notified of the decision and how it was archived, as the case involved a sitting member of the senate.

Legal experts note that the controversy highlights long-standing questions about the boundaries between the ombudsman’s powers and congress’ disciplinary authority. Under the ombudsman Act of 1989, the office may recommend administrative sanctions against legislators, but the senate retains final disciplinary control over its members.

Public confidence and institutional credibility at stake the discovery of an unpublicized ruling five years after its issuance has raised concerns about transparency in the country’s anti-corruption system. Advocates say the ombudsman should make all final resolutions publicly accessible to preserve confidence in the institution’s integrity.

As of october 24, 2025, ombudsman remulla has confirmed he will not pursue Villanueva’s removal in light of the 2019 decision. Both martires and Villanueva insist the case was properly resolved, but lawmakers and civic groups continue to press for a formal inquiry to establish how the reversal remained unknown to the public for so long. n

files plunder and graft raps vs Duterte, Bong Go over alleged P7-B infrastructure awards

Trillanes, as a private citizen, files plunder and graft raps vs Duterte and Go over alleged P7B DPWH projects; Go welcomes probe

by AJPress

mANiLA — former senator Antonio “sonny” trillanes iV, acting as a private citizen, filed plunder and graft complaints before the office of the ombudsman on october 21, 2025, against former president rodrigo Duterte and senator christopher “Bong” Go over nearly P7 billion in alleged government infrastructure awards to construction firms owned by Go’s father and brother.

Also named as respondents were Deciderio Lim Go and Alfredo Armero Go, Go’s father and brother, respectively. trillanes said the firms cLtG Builders and Alfrego Builders cornered contracts from the Department of Public Works and highways (DPWh) over several years. he filed the case under republic Acts 7080 (plunder), 3019 (anti-graft), and 6713 (code of conduct and ethical standards), which empower any citizen to report alleged public-official misconduct to the ombudsman. Complaint cites COA, DPWH data

According to the complaint, cLtG Builders—owned by Go’s father—and Alfrego Builders—owned by his brother—secured about P6.95 billion in DPWh projects from the late 2000s through the Duterte administration. trillanes also cited a joint venture between cLtG Builders and st. Gerrard construction, owned by the Discaya family, which allegedly received another P816 million in contracts from 2016 to 2022. the complaint references commission on Audit (coA) and DPWh records covering nearly 200 projects in the Davao region. trillanes claimed these transactions violated conflict-of-interest and anti-graft provisions that prohibit public officials and their relatives from benefiting from government contracts.

he described Go as a “central figure” in the alleged transactions and Duterte as the approving authority both during his term as Davao city mayor and later as president. Go: “Culprits should be held liable” sen. Go denied any wrongdoing and welcomed an investigation. “Now that it’s with the Ombudsman, there is COA…. If there were irregularities in these projects, sue the people involved…. Culprits should be held liable,”

he said in filipino, adding that he would support accountability “even against my own family members” if proven guilty. Go also said he has “no connections” with the Discayas or their flood-control projects.

Ombudsman investigation process

Under the law, the ombudsman may evaluate the complaint, require counter-affidavits from the respondents, and subpoena coA and DPWh records. if probable cause is found, it can file cases before the sandiganbayan. r.A. 7080 defines plunder as accumulating at least P50 million in ill-gotten wealth through a combination of overt acts, while r.A. 3019 and r.A. 6713 penalize graft and conflicts of interest by public officials. trillanes emphasized that he filed the case as an ordinary citizen, not in any official capacity, saying the evidence he presented was sourced from public documents and coA reports. the ombudsman Act allows “any person” to report alleged acts of corruption. Flood-control contracts under scrutiny media reports citing the complaint noted that flood-control and road-widening projects in Davao were among those awarded to the firms. coA data reportedly show cLtG Builders winning 125 DPWh contracts from 2007 to 2018, and Alfrego Builders dozens more in 2017–2018. Asian Journal has not independently verified these numbers and attributes them to the complaint and referenced coA documents.

As of press time, the filing remains an allegation. All respondents are entitled to due process and the presumption of innocence until the ombudsman completes its investigation and, if warranted, files formal charges. n

What is a postnuptial agreement?

A POSTNUPTIAL agreement

is a contract between you and your spouse entered into after you get married resolving issues in your marriage. It is similar to a prenuptial agreement except it occurs after your marriage. For couples that get married without a prenuptial agreement, it is not too late to have an agreement dealing with issues of property division, management of finances, spousal support, division of a business that takes effect in case of a divorce. You can enter into a postnuptial agreement even if the marriage is going well. People grow and change over time. You can never predict if your relationship with your spouse will stay the same in the future. In a way, it is a form of planning to cover the contingency in case the marriage does not work out in the future.

If you are the spouse who is the primary breadwinner such as a Registered Nurse, a Physician, or other Professional, California community property law provides for a 50% interest to your spouse for any income earned by you during the marriage and any property acquired by you and your spouse during the marriage. Basically, your spouse has a one-half interest in your salary, earnings, and any assets you acquired during the marriage even if it was you who sweated to earn that money and even if a particular asset or bank account is under your name alone. This 50/50 division can be changed even after the marriage by ways of a postnuptial agreement. What issues can be resolved in advance through a postnuptial agreement? You can agree on how a business or a professional practice is to be divided in case of a divorce. Through the postnuptial agreement, the division does not have to be 50/50. The agreement can provide that the business will be awarded to one spouse alone or it can provide a certain amount of buyout to the other spouse. There is a lot of flexibility as to how you want to structure this.

You can also provide for how real property is to be divided such as a house or rental property. Typically, a house purchased during the marriage is community property to be divided equally. A house purchased before the marriage is separate property but if there was a mortgage or refinancing during the marriage and the monthly mortgage payment is paid from earnings during the marriage, there could be a community interest in that separate property house which entitles your spouse to a portion of the house. This confusion can be squared away and clarified in a postnuptial agreement. You can provide for who gets the house and what buy out , if any, your spouse will get in case of a divorce. Spousal support can also be addressed in the postnuptial agreement. A common provisions is to agree to a certain amount of spousal support which varies depending on how long the marriage was at the time the parties divorce. It is also possible to waive spousal support altogether. However, such waiver of support will be scrutinized as to unconscionability at the time of the divorce.

On My Jubilee Year Pilgrimage

HOW would I describe the jubilee pilgrimage I recently led to Italy? First and foremost, it was a ministry and mission, not a vacation. As I emphasized to the 34 pilgrims who traveled with me, we must remember that we did not come as tourists but as pilgrims. Our purpose was to grow in the virtues of faith, hope, and love, and to become better missionary-disciples of Jesus Christ. Our journey took us to several Holy Sites: Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis and St. Clare; San Giovanni Rotondo, home of Padre Pio, the 20th-century Italian saint, priest, stigmatist, and mystic (1887-1968); Lanciano, known for the first recorded Catholic Eucha-

ristic Miracle; Loreto, a renowned Marian pilgrimage town famous for the Santa Casa, or Holy House of the Virgin; the Salerno Cathedral, or Duomo di Salerno, built in the Romanesque style in the 11th century, which houses the crypt of St. Matthew; and the Sorrento Cathedral (Duomo dei Santi Filippo e Giacomo), also built in the 11th century and dedicated to St. Philip and St. James. During our final days, we entered the “Four Holy Doors” to receive plenary indulgences—these are the Holy Doors of the four major basilicas in Rome, which are ceremonially opened by the Pope during Jubilee years. They are located at St. Peter’s Basilica (Vatican City), St. John Lateran, St. Paul Outside the Walls, and Santa Maria Maggiore. As we passed through these doors, we remembered that this ritual symbolizes a spiritual journey from sin to grace.

Celebrating Mass in these magnificent and historic cathedrals and basilicas was a treasured gift and a profound blessing. I prayed

for all of you and our parish during these moments. Additionally, I lit candles for your special intentions at each holy place we visited.

I thank God for the opportunity to be part of this jubilee pilgrimage to Rome, which traditionally occurs every 25 years. I don’t anticipate waiting that long to go on another one! I hope our young people come to recognize the spiritual significance of pilgrimage. It is a spiritual exercise that the Church promotes to deepen our faith, hope, love, and holiness.

The most joyous part of our pilgrimage was seeing Pope Leo XIV during Wednesday’s Papal Audience amidst thousands of people in St. Peter’s Square. We received his blessing and listened to his wisdom. He reminded us:

“To journey with Jesus means to experience being sustained despite everything—to have our thirst quenched and to be refreshed amid the hardships and struggles that, like heavy stones, threaten to block or divert our

SINCE COVID-19 was first discovered in Wuhan, China, in December 2019, and the first case in the United States was reported by the CDC on January 20, 2020, in Washington State, people today, five years later, are still confused about COVID-19 and the vaccine recommendation.

Obviously, public education about the COVID-19 virus, its spread, mortality risk, and vaccination has been deficient, or the messaging was poor. Fake news and misinformation on social media have aggravated the confusion and widespread “vaccine-phobia” among people. Over the past 5 years, this has led to massive spread and infection and countless deaths in the Philippines, the United States, and around the world.

Here are some popular questions being asked, and my clarification.

Are the vaccines worth the risk?

Edward Jenner created the world’s first successful vaccine in July 1796 by inoculating an 8-year-old boy, James Phipps, against the vicious killer smallpox. This highly transmissible, deadly viral disease killed an estimated 4 million Aztecs in the early 1500s and is thought to have caused the collapse of the Inca Empire, killing up to 90 percent of the population. Had there been vaccines against smallpox then, similar to those we have against COVID-19 and other viral diseases today, the Empire could have been saved.

Without the vaccines against COVID-19, the more than 7 million deaths worldwide from the pandemic could have been ten times more, and the 66,000 deaths in the Philippines, more than half a million, and the 1.2 million deaths in the USA, more than 12 million. Thank God for the vaccines! Vaccines today are safe and effective. Albeit not perfect, with some complications and side effects, nonetheless, these vaccines have saved billions of lives during this pandemic.

The COVID-19 vaccines are worth it. The risk of death from COVID-19 could be 30 percent or higher among those infected, especially the elderly and other vulnerable people, and the risk of death from the vaccines is a frac-

COVID confusion

tion of one percent. One does not have to be an Einstein to figure this out. Just do the math! I had my fourth COVID-19 shot last year; why do I have to take another one?

The simplest way to understand COVID-19 and the vaccines is to consider each variant of COVID-19 to be a different “disease entity,” that COVID-19 is “a series of,” and not only one disease, requiring only one vaccine. Viruses naturally replicate and evolve into a new strain over time, for which the previous vaccine of 4-6 months ago or longer will no longer be effective.

A new vaccine tailored to be effective against a new strain has to be developed periodically as new variants evolve. Simply stated, one vaccine for every new strain or a couple of strains, as recommended by the FDA.

I was infected two years ago and therefore have natural immunity. Why should I need a booster shot?

Infection confers natural immunity, but it is not as stable and reliable as vaccination. Some of those previously infected with COVID-19 still got reinfected. This is why a booster with the latest reformulated vaccine is recommended, especially for those with chronic diseases, especially seniors.

What is the current strain of COVID-19 called?

In the United States, the newly dominant COVID-19 strain is the XFG, or nicknamed “Stratus” variant. Seventy-six percent of the cases during the week ending September 6 were the XFG variant, “far surpassing the NB.1.8.1 Nimbus strain” of the previous period, reports the CDC. How does CDC track emerging variants?

Clinically, the CDC uses genomic surveillance to track emerging SARS-CoV-2 (the COVID-19 virus). The viral genetic sequencing data obtained from patients provide information about the nature of the virus, its transmissibility, virulence, severity, etc. How often does the CDC monitor the virus?

Every Friday, at various strategic sites in the USA, the CDC monitors Wastewater for the COVID-19 virus. It also analyzes the wastewater for other viruses and bacteria for various illnesses. So, wastewater is not total waste; it is a source of vital information in our fight against diseases. What is Kennedy’s MAHA’s new policy on the vaccines?

Health and Human Services

Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.’s personal extreme antagonism against vaccines has been tempered by both the medical authorities and public pressure.

The previous CDC recommendation was for everyone six months and older to get the vaccine. Starting May 2025, under Kennedy’s authority, (1) the CDC removed the recommendation that healthy children and pregnant women receive COVID-19 vaccines; (2) Vaccine accessibility will be limited to those adults 65 and older and younger individuals with high-risk conditions; and (3) Healthy adults under 65 must consult a healthcare provider for a prescription.

This would certainly make it more difficult for people, since their insurance may no longer cover COVID-19 shots, unlike the previous HHS policy, which allowed people to go to any pharmacy to get the COVID-19 shot any time, fully covered by their insurance. When will COVID-19 end?

Even experts do not know. As long as there are unvaccinated people, who are the prime target of the virus and harbor the virus in their bodies, where the virus could evolve and replicate, and as long as these individuals spread the virus, the pandemic will continue. Infected people who do not mask up and distance themselves also contribute to transmission, infection, and deaths. Today, COVID infections are decreasing, but we must never lower our guard. Complacency and carelessness could spell a disaster.

From September 1 to 28, 2025, there were 1,271 new deaths from COVID-19 in 34 countries, lower compared to 1,463 in the previous 28 days, and 917 deaths as of October 5, 2025. About 88 percent of these deaths were among those 65 and older.

In any contagious condition, we need all of us to protect each other, which also protects ourselves in a vicious cycle. Studies have shown masks protect the wearer, and more so the people around. Compassion towards all our fellowmen always yields inner joy in us and gratitude from them, and affirmation from society.

* * * The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.

* * * The main objective of this column is to edu-

What Andres Muhlach would tell young Aga

‘Bagets’ begets a stage version, with the rising star playing the role that launched his father’s career

by AllAn PolicArPio Inquirer.net

Andres Muhlach has lost count of how many times he watched “Bagets”—the 1984 coming-ofage film that catapulted his father Aga Muhlach to stardom. He loves the story, the energy, and the bold, colorful fashion that was unmistakable of that era. As a child, he used to copy Aga’s character, Adie, especially in that classroom scene where he rocked a red baseball cap with his uniform. But more than anything, he was fascinated by his father—a wideeyed 14-year-old back then, but already brimming with promise.

“Natutuwa ako kasi I really looked up to him growing up,” Muhlach tells Lifestyle Inquirer. “I feel like he was enjoying his job and craft as much as he could.”

That Muhlach is now bringing the same role to the stage in the upcoming “Bagets: The Musical” is nothing short of “surreal,” he says—as if everything has unexpectedly come full circle. “Dad’s career took off with this movie, so I feel blessed that I’m now playing his character,” he says. “He’s excited to see how the cast and I will pull it off.”

Jumping in with both feet

At 23, Muhlach is now much older than his dad was when “Bagets” first hit the cinemas. So, in the fantastical chance he ends up time-traveling back to 1984, he wouldn’t ask for advice on how to embody the charming, romantic boy next door that is Adie. He would simply tell him, “Keep it up.”

“Everything he would experience and go through in life, everything that happened, would be a stepping stone to where he is now, to the point where my sister (Atasha) and I came along,” he

muses. If anything, it’s actually Muhlach who wants to take something with him, like the love his father had for acting early on. He hopes to carry that same spirit as he forges his own path, because truth be told, he’s “very new” and still has much to learn about the industry.

Muhlach has been professionally acting for only less than two years. Though he has already starred in a series (“Ang Mutya ng Section E”), a sitcom (“Da Pers Family”), and, most recently, a movie (“Minamahal”), it’s no great stretch to assume that theater is unlike anything he has done before.

“The opportunity can come at any moment,” Muhlach says. “But it really comes down to your willingness to learn. And it’s through the hard work you put into everything that you’re able to accomplish what you want in this industry”

If his audition—the line readings and on-the-spot singing—“scared” him at first, things would only grow more daunting and exacting when the curtains rise and the rigors of doing multiple

live shows start to kick in. It would be nice to say that he’s completely ready. And he tries to be—always. But the truth is, “you can never really be ready” until you jump in with both feet.

“The opportunity can come at any moment,” Muhlach says. “But it really comes down to your willingness to learn. And it’s through the hard work you put into everything that you’re able to accomplish what you want in this industry.”

Finding his footing

He may have jumped in with both feet—but not without a creative net to help cushion his career leap. Presented by Viva, “Bagets: The Musical” is staged by PETA (Philippine Educational Theater Association). Plus, it is led by director Maribel Legarda, musical director Vince Lim, and playwright J-Mee Katanyag.

And it’s with their guidance that the young actor finds reassurance—and eventually, his footing onstage.

The intensive workshops he has begun to undergo, Muhlach says, are helping “close the gap” between working in television and film and venturing into theater.

“The process, the preparations are all new to us. But I believe we’re [making progress] slowly but surely… We want to make sure that we’re prepared come show time,” relates Muhlach, who alternates the role of Adie with Mico Hendrix Chua.

While admittedly not yet a “super” singer, Muhlach has a natural affinity for music and has a surprisingly deep appreciation for 1970s and 1980s music

While admittedly not yet a “suPAGE 12

Manila food scene makes Nat Geo’s new ‘Best of the World’ list

by Kristofer PurNell Philstar.com

AMERICAN magazine Na-

tional Geographic included the Philippine capital Manila in its “Best of the World 2026” list, highlighting its diverse culinary scene.

A writeup by food and travel journalist-chef Lisa Futterman notes the country’s trading history and focus on local ingredients as integral parts of Philippines food culture, also referencing the upcoming debut of the Michelin Guide here.

Manila itself was highlighted as a melting pot of Spanish, Chinese and Malay influences, with the Tutuban Night Market getting a mention as well as the Salcedo Community Market held in Makati on weekends.

Futterman mentioned local delicacies like Fish Ball and Turon, citing restaurant specialties such as Manam’s Crispy Pancit Palabok and New Po Heng Lumpia House’s Spring Rolls with meat, veggies, pea-

nuts, and seaweed.

Makati-based restaurants Toyo Eatery’s modern menu and “kamayan feast” as well as Kondwi’s array of creative cocktails were commended, as were the 11 paella varieties of Spanish-inspired Alba.

Ho-land and Eng Bee Tin bakeries, which Futterman noted had branches in the world’s oldest Chinatown Binondo, were further endorsed for their hopia, tikoy, and moon cakes.

A longer writeup by Futterman suggest visits to Mary Grace for merienda, Bebang’s for halo-halo, and a variety of restaurants like Inato, Metiz, Gallery by Chele, Hapag, Tadeo, and Sarsa, plus Poblacion bars such as Polilya, Run Rabbit Run, Raion, and Spirits Library.

She recommends first-time tourist go to Intramuros and its surrounding cultural landmarks, the Ayala Museum, or go on day trips to Mount Daraitan, Mount Pinatubo, Taal Lake, Pagsanjan Falls, and Laguna hot springs.

Because of the country’s wet and dry seasons plus a busy December due to the holidays, Futterman says the ideal time to visit Manila is between January and April.

Transport ideas aren’t complete without a mention of Manila jeepneys and buses, although the write-up did include motorcycle taxis or habal-habal are available options. As for accommodations, Futterman’s suggestions range from the historic Manila Hotel and luxurious Shangri-La at the Fort to the inexpensive Lub d Manila Makati, also noting the reopening of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Ayala Triangle Gardens and arrival of another Dusit Hotel atop San Juan’s Primex Tower.

Other destinations included in the “Best of the World 2026” list are Quebec, Banff, and Vancouver in Canada, the Italian Dolomites, the Chinese capital Beijing, Spain’s Basque region, Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro, and all of South Korea and Fiji.

How CITEM Founder Mina T. Gabor Made Me Internationally Known

My former boss, Dr. Mina T. Gabor, once asked me to produce CITEM Trade Update—a monthly, later weekly, newsletter that caught the attention of local and foreign buyers, product specialists, academic institutions, and other stakeholders, including regional offices of the Department of Trade and Industry. Through CITEM Trade Update, I received training from the United Nations as an ASEAN-EEC fellow and represented the Philippines in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Dr. Gabor founded the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) in 1984 and served as its first president and executive director. Her goal was to promote Philippine products and services in the global market.

Among her major achievements were the establishment of the Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC) and securing the World Trade Center franchise for the Philippines. She is also a trailblazer in Philippine tourism—recognized as the first female Secretary of the Department of Tourism and for pioneering sustainable tourism. She later founded and now heads the International School of Sustainable Tourism, a leading institution in the Asia-Pacific region dedicated to developing and promoting sustainability in the industry.

Dr. Gabor has served as a consultant for several international organizations, including the United Nations International Trade Center and the World Tourism Organization. In 1998, she received the Philippine Legion of Honor.

We recently held a reunion of former CITEM employees, and our former boss, Dr. Gabor, joined us to give a much-needed morale boost.

Candidly, without Mina T. Gabor, I would not be where I am today— and for that, I will always be grateful.

Science Journalism Forum ’25

I recently received an email from SciComm X:

“Dear Rogelio, We pleased to inform you that the committee has agreed to accept your fellowship application as an

exception, in recognition of your active participation and valuable contributions to the Science Journalism Forum.”

My heartfelt thanks to SJF through SciComm X. This marks my fifth active participation in the prestigious Science Journalism Forum since 2021, where I ranked 6th on the SJF Leaderboard. I placed 3rd in 2023, and in both 2022 and 2024, I won while representing the Philippines. I am proud to join participants from The New York Times, Harvard University, Johns Hopkins University, Stanford University, CNN, Deutsche Welle, CERN, the National Institutes of Health, Cornell University, Nature, and Bloomberg in the 2025 Science Journalism Forum.

TESOL to Elect Next Leaders TESOL International Association has chosen me as one of the voting members to help elect the next set of officers for 2026. Good luck to:

Dr. Kate Mastruserio Reynolds Washington, USA (Ed.D. TESOL/ Literacy; M.A. and B.A. French, University of Cincinnati, Ohio; Professor of Bilingual Education, TESOL, and Literacy at Central Washington University, Ellensburg, WA; Teacher Preparation in TESOL/ Bilingual Education, 2018–present)

Dr. Gabriel Hugo Diaz Maggioli Uruguay (Ed.D., University of Bath, UK, 2018; M.A. Education,

University of Bath, 2004; B.A. English as a Foreign Language, National Teacher Education College, Uruguay, 1985; Professor of TESOL, Learning Theories, and Assessment, Institute of Education, Universidad ORT Uruguay, 2020–present)

TESOL members, your voice matters. Help shape the future of our association by voting in the 2026 election. Vote by November 5, 2025, and make your impact!

Members will receive an email with instructions on how to vote. Learn more about the candidates here: https://bit.ly/4n5bKi4 PFBA ’25 Winners Shine in Las Vegas

Some of the awardees of the 3rd Philippine Finest Business Awards & Outstanding Achievers 2025 were recently featured for three days on LED billboards in Las Vegas, Nevada.

“Our global campaign, powered by Alegre De Pilipinas ‘Official’ and Janice Israel Delima, proudly brings Filipino excellence to the international spotlight through a stunning digital billboard display right in the heart of Las Vegas,” said La Visual Corporation. This international milestone marks another proud achievement for La Visual Corporation, honoring outstanding Filipino achievers with world-class recognition and visibility. I am grateful to have been featured on a solo billboard alongside fellow

honorees that included Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos-Recto, actor Aga Muhlach, my friend Jojo Bragais, William Jones, PTV’s Rise and Shine Pilipinas hosts Audrey Gorriceta and Fifi delos Santos, Holland’s

Got Talent contestant Lae Manego, photographer Jamin Lim, Jeffrey Dy, Charrie Rose Apilado, Edwin Lisa, NET25’s Wej Cudiamat, Earlo Bringas, Nirro Marcelo, Judge Tarcelo Sabarre Jr., Ricky Palou, Willie Marcial, Salvie Collado Paparon, and Michaela Maris Lamzon, among others.

Ivatan Artists Exhibit at Casa

Angela Yaru nu Artes Ivatan extended its deepest gratitude to Oly Delos Santos, with the assistance of Andrew and Quev, for their wonderful collaboration and support during the exhibit at Casa Angela in Pampanga.

“It has been such a heartwarming and fulfilling experience for the Ivatan artists to share our

path through life. At times, we feel joyful; at other times, sad. We may feel fulfilled or stressed, gratified or demotivated. We lead busy lives, focusing on results and sometimes even attaining prestigious goals. Other times, we remain suspended—precarious—awaiting success or recognition. In short, we find ourselves in a paradox: we long to be happy, yet lasting happiness often eludes us. This deep desire in our hearts cannot be satisfied by roles, power, or possessions. It can only be fulfilled by the certainty that someone sustains this foundational impulse of our humanity and by the assurance that our deepest hopes will not be disappointed. The Risen Christ is our certainty and hope.

It’s not mere optimism—opti-

mism often collapses under the weight of disappointment. But hope, Christian hope, promises and fulfills. The Risen Jesus is the guarantee of this deliverance! He is the wellspring that satisfies our thirst—the infinite thirst for fullness placed in our hearts by the Holy Spirit.”

I am glad to be back in the parish, renewed and hopeful for continued blessings upon our community.

In Christ and Mary,

* * * The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.

* * * Fr. Rodel “Odey” Balagtas is the pastor of Incarnation Church in Glendale, California.

Since the postnuptial agreement is the first issue that can be attacked in a divorce case, it is best that each party be represented by their own attorney in negotiating the agreement. In that case, there is less likelihood that the postnuptial agreement will be found invalid since you can argue that there was no undue influence since both parties were represented by counsel. Having a postnuptial is definitely beneficial in minimizing the uncertainty in the future pertaining to your marriage and finances.

LOS ANGELES

Josh Yugen’s expanding Miss Universe footprint: The Filipino behind five national franchises

Dubai-based Filipino entrepreneur Josh Yugen now oversees Miss Universe franchises in Bahrain, Egypt, Pakistan, Denmark, and Sweden. His growing portfolio shows how Filipino talent continues to shape global pageantry from the Middle East to Europe

by AJPress

A Filipino shaping global

Josh Yugen, a Dubai-based Filipino entrepreneur, has built one of the widest Miss Universe franchise portfolios ever held by a Filipino. Through his company, Yugen Group, he currently manages the national licenses for Bahrain, Egypt, Pakistan, Denmark, and Sweden. His expansion highlights the strong Filipino presence in the global beauty pageant industry.

Under Yugen’s direction, Miss Universe Bahrain gained recognition for promoting modest fashion that aligned with Gulf

The Miss Universe Organization granted Yugen’s group the Bahrain license in 2021, marking the country’s debut under his leadership. In 2023, his company obtained the rights to Egypt and Pakistan, both of which returned to Miss Universe after years of absence. By 2025, his portfolio expanded further when Denmark and Sweden joined under House of Yugen, reintroducing the two Scandinavian countries to the competition. Track record and partnerships

cultural values. The franchise earned attention in regional media for balancing modern representation with respect for tradition. When Pakistan joined Miss Universe in 2023, the event was organized by Yugen Publishing and Marketing, based in Dubai. The initiative sparked public debate in Pakistan but no formal opposition followed. Erica Robin became the country’s first Miss Universe delegate, representing a new milestone for women’s participation in pageantry. Egypt’s return was also notable. After years of absence,

Egypt re-entered the Miss Universe pageant under Yugen’s franchise. The relaunch formed part of a regional effort to strengthen cultural and creative industries.

Scandinavian expansion

In 2025, Yugen extended his reach to Europe. Reports from ScandAsia, PEP.ph, and the Philippine Daily Inquirer confirmed that Denmark and Sweden are now under the House of Yugen umbrella. Both countries are expected to send candidates to Miss Universe 2025, trained through a Manila-based mentorship program organized by Yugen’s team.

The Manila training camp gathered representatives from Egypt, Denmark, Pakistan, and Sweden. Filipino coaches led workshops on public speaking, styling, and cultural advocacy, underscoring the Philippines’ growing influence in international pageantry training.

A Filipino global vision

Yugen has said that his goal is to create platforms where women from diverse cultures can tell their stories. Operating from Dubai allows him to connect Asian and European markets while integrating Filipino expertise.

Although some of his franchises have faced scrutiny, particularly in conservative regions, Yugen’s record remains clear

Miss Philippines USA Winners Shine at Los Angeles Fashion Week

LOS ANGELES Fashion Week presented by Art Hearts Fashion spotlighted two of Miss Philippines USA’s 2025 winners as they made their LA Fashion Week runway debut at The New Mart on October 18, 2025. Sophia Mendiola, Miss Young Philippines USA 2025, and Ciely Ycoy graced the catwalk for celebrated designers Shahar Shaer, BFYNE, and Mister Triple X. Shahar Shaer showcased exquisite bridal couture, BFYNE presented bold contemporary swim and resort wear for the fiercely fashion-forward, and Mister Triple X delivered edgy high-end streetwear for those ready to embrace their inner rock star.

Representing Miss Philippines USA, the models captivated the audience with their confidence and poise. Sophia Mendiola wore a stunning white gown with a plum corset by Shahar Shaer and an intricately patterned black lace long dress by Mister Triple X. Ciely Ycoy turned heads in a vibrant red ruffled dress by BFYNE and a chic black-and-white knit romper by Mister Triple X.

The models were selected during a casting call held at Nari Los Angeles on October 5th.

The most recent Miss Philippines USA Pageant was held on August 17, 2025, at the Alex Theatre in Glendale, California, hosted by two prominent Filipino-American news anchors — Cher Calvin of KTLA and Tony Cabrera of ABC 7. The event featured special guest appearances by actor/host Jai Rodriguez, Reggie Lee of Fast and Furious, former NBA player Byron Scott with wife Cece, former Miss Philippines Lisa Manibog Lew, and former Philippine actress Joyce Jimenez. The pageant was proudly sponsored by the Philippine Department of Tourism, Philippine Airlines, Edwin and Lani Raquel, Lou Razon Designs, Estilo Filipino, Events by Chris, MC Aesthetics, Carlotta Collections, Waste Resource Management, Riman, De Star Boutique, Bella Medical Group and Aesthetics, Rising Stars Performing Arts, Kubo Restaurant, Fighter Vigor Foundation,Bontika, Norie Rosen Realty, Astoria, LA Chibugan, Tang and Java, DMCI Homes, Arleen Rojas,

Monet Salon, Lucky Brides, URFASTC, Robert Ryan, 808 Local Hawaiian Grill, Remitly, National Diversity Coalition, Charles Micu, Island Pacific Supermarket, Astoria Palawan, Mic Diaz Presents, Paco’s Place, SoCal Filipinos, Doctors on the Go, Rajah Tours Philippines, Boracay Summer Place, Uni Orient, Dusit Thani, UXPLOR, and AGAPE. In 2024, Miss Philippines USA

The Pageant expanded its platform by launching the very first Mister Philippines USA competition, created with the same mission of developing outstanding ambassadors of goodwill for the Filipino-American community and promoting Filipino culture and heritage in the United

States. Founded 14 years ago, Miss Philippines USA The Pageant continues its mission to develop the finest ambassadors of goodwill for the Filipino-American community while promoting the rich beauty, culture, and heritage of the Philippines. Among the many opportunities the pageant offers are exposure to professional modeling, fashion events, and community leadership experiences. A nationwide search is now underway for the next generation of Miss and Mister Philippines USA representatives. For candidate and sponsorship opportunities, visit missphilusa.com

Emman Atienza, 19, daughter of Kim Atienza, dies in Los Angeles home; medical examiner rules suicide

by AJPress

FAMILY confirms ‘unexpect-

ed’ loss

LOS ANGELES — Television host and educator Kim “Kuya Kim” Atienza and his wife Felicia Hung-Atienza confirmed the death of their daughter, Emmanuelle “Emman” Atienza, 19, at her home in Los Angeles.

In a joint family statement posted on October 24, the Atienzas said Emman’s passing was “unexpected” and described her as a young woman who “brought so much joy, laughter and love, and had a way of making people feel seen and heard.” They added that she “wasn’t afraid to share her own journey with mental health.” The family requested privacy as they grieve.

Official findings

According to verified reports citing the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner-Coroner, Emman’s death on October 22, 2025, was ruled suicide by ligature hanging. The Los Angeles Police Department has not reported any sign of foul play. While the coroner’s office con-

firmed the manner and cause of death, the Atienza family’s statement did not include those details. The family has not issued further comment beyond their initial post.

A voice for her generation Emman had gained a following on TikTok and Instagram for her candid reflections on self-image, anxiety and authenticity. Friends and followers described her as grounded and creative, someone who encouraged others to seek help and to speak openly about mental health.

Her last public post, shared several weeks before her death, spoke about taking a break from social media to rest and reflect—a message that has since resonated with her audience.

Born and raised in Manila, Emman was the youngest of Kim and Felicia Atienza’s three children. She had recently moved to Los Angeles to pursue creative projects and continue her studies.

Outpouring of sympathy Messages of condolence poured in from fans, classmates and public figures. GMA Network, where Kim Atienza is a

addressed with honesty and empathy.

What Andres Muhlach would tell...

per” singer, Muhlach has a natural affinity for music and has a surprisingly deep appreciation for 1970s and 1980s music—including such Michael Jackson hits: “P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing),” “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’,” “Off the Wall,” and “Rock with You.” He’s also into musicals like “Hamilton.”

“I believe I have improved my singing, especially compared to last year,” Muhlach says—thanks in part to all the mall shows, fan meetings, and concerts he has been doing with his screen partner, Ashtine Olviga, while promoting their projects. “I wasn’t confident singing in public, but doing those events helped me grow more comfortable.”

Pop culture impact

Set to run from Jan. 23 to March 2026 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, “Bagets: The Musical” hopes to recapture and reimagine the spirit of the beloved film for a new generation. The story follows a tight-knit barkada

An Evening at the Civic: Sofronio Vasquez Shines in a Post-Win Celebration for His Kababayans

It was a night filled with pride, passion, and music at the historic Pasadena Civic Auditorium as Overture 25 Productions and Godzella International presented The Winner of NBC’s The Voice Sofronio Vasquez in Los Angeles, a celebratory concert honoring the newly crowned winner of The Voice USA Season 26. The show, held on October 11, 2025, brought together fans, friends, and families who had followed Sofronio’s remarkable journey to victory. For many, the evening was more than a concert—it was a celebration of heritage, talent, and perseverance, and a special treat for his kababayans, the Filipino-American community who had cheered him on from his first note on television to his triumphant finale. Born and raised in the Philippines, Sofronio Vasquez rose to international fame when he captivated America with his soulful voice and heartfelt performances on The Voice (U.S.). During his blind audition, he earned a rare four-chair turn for his rendition of Mary J. Blige’s “I’m Goin’ Down,” ultimately choosing Michael Bublé as his coach. Week after week, he showcased an extraordinary range and emotional depth that made him a fan favorite. By the finale, his performances of “A Million Dreams” from The Greatest Showman and a stirring duet of “Who’s Lovin’ You” with Bublé sealed his historic win—making him the first Filipino and first male Asian winner of the U.S. edition of The Voice

His victory became a source of pride for Filipinos around the world, a moment that transcended entertainment and touched something deeply personal in the global Filipino community. It was that same pride that filled the air in Pasadena, where fans waved Philippine flags and shouted messages of love and support as Sofronio took the stage. “This night is for all of you,” he said to the cheering crowd. “You believed in me when I was still dreaming—and that dream is ours now.” The words set the tone for an evening that felt more like a reunion of hearts than a concert.

Under the musical direction of Troy Laureta, a celebrated FilipinoAmerican music director, producer, and arranger known for his work with artists like Ariana Grande, Andrea Bocelli, and Charice, the concert became a masterclass in live performance. Laureta’s arrangements gave the show both cinematic flair and heartfelt intimacy, guiding Sofronio through a set that balanced powerhouse moments with tender reflection.

The evening began with a series of show-stoppers where Sofronio’s commanding vocals and stage presence filled the auditorium with electricity. He then revisited some of his Voice highlights, including soulful ballads and emotionally charged duets that showcased his versatility and storytelling. The night featured beautiful collaborations with fellow The Voice artists Jeremy Beloate, Danny Joseph, and Mikaela Bautista. Beloate, a soulful performer from Memphis, brought raw emotion and powerful storytelling to his duet, while Joseph added warmth and musical precision that complemented Sofronio’s tone perfectly. Bautista, the youngest among them, charmed the audience with her crystal-clear voice and effortless confidence. Together, they embodied the spirit of unity and artistry that defines The Voice—a reminder that music is not

just competition, but community. One of the most unforgettable moments of the night came when world-renowned composer and producer David Foster made a surprise appearance. As the lights dimmed and the opening notes of “My Grown-Up Christmas List” began to play, the audience gasped in awe. Sofronio and Foster performed the song together—a piece originally composed by Foster himself—in what became one of the most talkedabout performances of the year. For Sofronio, it was a dream come true. He shared that he had performed the same song years ago on Tawag ng Tanghalan in the Philippines, never imagining that one day he would sing it alongside its creator. The duet, filled with emotion and grace, became an instant viral moment, with clips shared widely across social media and praised by fans around the world. As the concert neared its finale, Sofronio returned to the stage to perform his winning song from The Voice, “A Million Dreams,” as his closing number. The performance was both triumphant and deeply moving—his signature powerhouse vocals now filled with gratitude, pride, and the weight of a dream fulfilled. The crowd erupted in applause, singing along as he hit every note with the same passion that won him the title, bringing the

evening to an unforgettable close.

The event was a success not only artistically but also through the generous support of its sponsors, which included IV Rx Health Group Holdings, Skin 105 Premier Med Spa, Sugar Land’s Premier Med Spa, Philippine Airlines, Ms. Nilda Olano Quiambao, Barbara Beyond Skin, K&Co, Wirksam Consulting, Island Pacific, Bergamot Asset Management, Tsoko Cafe, SPV, Orchid Street Pilates and Physical Therapy, Ecospan, Breed Kindness Foundation, and Elena’s Original Lapid. The Filipino Channel (TFC) served as the official media partner, ensuring that the celebration reached audiences across the globe. By the concert’s end, as the final notes echoed through the hall, Sofronio stood at center stage, visibly moved. The audience rose to their feet, applauding and screaming for more. Many recall Sofronio saying, “This isn’t just my story. It’s our story. And it’s only the beginning.”

That night at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium was more than a victory lap—it was a homecoming. It marked the rise of an artist who carries not only a powerful voice but also the dreams of a people. For Sofronio Vasquez, it was proof that talent, faith, and heart can cross oceans and unite nations—and for his kababayans, it was a night to remember forever.

of five high school friends as they navigate adolescence while balancing family expectations, friendships, and love.

The group also includes Gilbert, the geeky class clown, originally played by Herbert Bautista, now portrayed by Noel Comia Jr. and Alamat’s Tomas Rodriguez; Tonton, the reckless daredevil “repeater” popularized by William Martinez and currently played by Milo Cruz and Migo Valid; Arnel, the rich kid dealing with family pressure, originally portrayed by Raymond Lauchengco, now alternated by KD Estrada and GAT’s Ethan David; and finally, Topee, the headstrong martial arts enthusiast first played by J.C. Bonnin and now brought to life onstage by Jeff Moses and Sam Shoaf.

The original “Bagets,” directed by Maryo J. de los Reyes, was a landmark film that redefined the coming-of-age genre in the Philippines. It made stars out of young newcomers and, at the same time, helped spark trends in fashion, music, youth culture, and lan-

guage

“It’s about building the bond we have—our chemistry, above all, is what matters most,” Muhlach points out. “We have been working hard. I have been learning from these guys, and learning more about myself in the process.”

The original “Bagets,” directed by Maryo J. de los Reyes, was a landmark film that redefined the coming-of-age genre in the Philippines. It made stars out of young newcomers and, at the same time, helped spark trends in fashion, music, youth culture, and language.

So beyond the technical demands of theater, the big challenge, Muhlach says, is reminding longtime fans—and introducing new audiences—to the impact the film had on Filipino pop culture. And despite the advances in technology and all the changes that have come in the 40 years since, one unifying thread continues to connect everyone.

“We were all young once, after all,” Muhlach says. n

Jessica Sanchez announces birth of first child

by AJPress

LOS ANGELES – Filipino Amer-

ican singer-songwriter Jessica Sanchez has joyfully announced the arrival of her first child, marking a year of triumph both on stage and at home.

From stage lights to baby lullabies

Sanchez, who won Season 20 of America’s Got Talent on September 24, 2025, officially welcomed her daughter Eliana Mae Gallardo on October 13, 2025. The newborn weighed 6 lb 12 oz and measured 20.5 inches at birth

The moment I held her, everything around me just stopped. It’s the kind of love you can’t explain that fills every part of you all at once,” Sanchez said in her first interview as a mother.

The couple chose the name Eliana, meaning “God has answered,” reflecting their deep sense of gratitude for this new chapter in life.

A winning season followed by new beginnings

Just weeks before giving birth, Sanchez was crowned the AGT Season 20 champion. Her victory came less than a month prior to her daughter’s birth – a profound personal and professional milestone. Her journey on the show is particularly notable because she first appeared as a contestant nearly two decades earlier, and came back to win while expecting her first child.

A journey rooted in Filipino and Mexican pride

Born in Chula Vista, California, Sanchez is the daughter of a Filipina mother and a Mexican Amer-

ican father who served in the U.S. Navy Reserve. Her multicultural upbringing has shaped the authenticity she brings to her music, amplifying her voice not only as an artist but as a symbol of representation. As a second-generation Filipino American and the daughter of a Mexican American father, her achievement resonates deeply within the Asian American and Latino communities alike.

A love story grounded in partnership Sanchez married Rickie Gallardo, a lighting professional, in April 2021. The couple, who dated for several years before tying the knot, have often spoken about how their shared faith and creative pursuits support their relationship. With the arrival of their daughter, they have entered a new phase together,  parenting and professional growth hand in hand. Looking ahead to new music and motherhood

With the arrival of Eliana, Sanchez says she is entering “her most creative season yet.” She plans to release new music inspired by themes of faith, renewal, and family –  a natural extension of her own life story. From her breakout moment as a finalist on American Idol in 2012 to her comeback and win on AGT and now becoming a mother, Sanchez continues to embody resilience, representation, and reinvention.

Her story, rooted in Filipino and Mexican heritage and sustained by faith and family, serves as a reminder that success is most meaningful when shared with love and purpose.

PNASC West Los Angeles 10th Anniversary Gala

THE Philippine Nurses Asso-

ciation of Southern California (PNASC) West Los Angeles Subchapter (PNASC WLA) under the leadership of President Diane Tupaz Roque proudly invites the community to celebrate a decade of nursing excellence, community service, and cultural pride at its 10th Anniversary Gala on Friday, November 8, 2025, at the Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City.

With the theme “From Scrubs to Society and from Care to Couture: Filipino Nurses as Icons of Care, Culture, and Change,” this milestone event honors the trailblazers and members who have advanced the nursing profession while uplifting the Filipino-American community across generations.

Over the past decade, PNASC WLA has made a lasting impact through health outreach programs, mentorship and leadership development, continuing education initiatives, and community partnerships that promote wellness, advocacy, and Filipino-American representation in healthcare. The chapter continues to serve with compassion, extending care from the bedside to the broader community.

Adding glamour and artistry to the celebration, world-renowned Filipino designer David Tupaz will present an exclusive couture fashion showcase, highlighting the creativity, grace, and global influence of Filipino talent.

“This milestone isn’t just about looking back—it’s about moving forward together,” said Diane Roque, NP, “We’re proud to celebrate Filipino nurses who bring compassion, excellence, and culture into everything they do, from

care to couture.”

“PNASC WLA’s decade of service reflects the strength, unity, and heart of Filipino nurses,” added Marie Navarro, MSN, RN, Immediate Past President of PNASC WLA. “This celebration honors every nurse who has dedicated their time and talent to making a difference, not only in hospitals but in the communities we serve.”

As PNASC WLA enters its next decade, it remains committed to advancing leadership, advocacy, and unity among Filipino-American nurses, empowering them

to continue shaping the future of healthcare and inspiring the next generation of leaders. Join us for an unforgettable evening of recognition, entertainment, and inspiration as we celebrate the legacy and leadership of Filipino nurses who continue to make a difference—from care to couture, and from scrubs to society. Be part of history. Celebrate the heart of Filipino nursing. Tickets, sponsorships, and event details available at mypnasc. org or pnascwla10.com.

David Pomeranz: The King of Hearts celebrates 50 years of magic

David Pomeranz, the “King of Hearts” behind Got to Believe in Magic and King and Queen of Hearts, marks 50 years since the release of his debut album It’s in Every One of Us. Beloved across generations of Filipinos, his timeless ballads continue to define love, hope, and the enduring power of music.

by AJPress

FOR half a century, David Pomeranz has sung of love, hope, and the quiet faith that something magical lives within every heart.

His professional recording career began in the early 1970s and reached a milestone in 1975 with the release of It’s in Every One of Us under Arista Records. The record introduced a voice that was soulful and sincere, setting the tone for a career built on emotional honesty and melodic grace. Five decades later, that same sincerity continues to define both his artistry and his enduring bond with Filipino audiences. He is loved by Filipinos everywherenot just for his songs, but for the sincerity that makes them feel personal, wherever they are in the world.

For Filipino listeners, who have always had a soft spot for heartfelt ballads, Pomeranz is more than a visiting act. His songs have stayed - woven into everyday life, from school proms to Sunday radio shows.

From Broadway dreams to enduring ballads Born in New York, Pomeranz grew up surrounded by Broadway and The Beatles. As a teenager, he began writing songs and performing wherever he could. By the early 1970s, he was touring with Rod Stewart, Billy Joel, and Three Dog Night, discovering how a song connects when it’s sung straight from the heart.

His debut album, It’s in Every One of Us (Arista Records, 1975), featured a collection of heartfelt originals that introduced him as both a gifted singer and songwriter. Among its standout tracks were “It’s in Every One of Us” — the title track and centerpiece of the album - “Tryin’ to Get the Feeling Again” (later covered by Barry Manilow), “If You Walked Away,” “The Hit Song of All Time,” “Ask Me to Say ‘I Do’ (And I Will),” and “The Old Songs,” which Manilow also recorded years later. These songs established Pomeranz’s reputation for emotional honesty and lyrical grace, and this

landmark album now serves as the foundation for his 50th anniversary celebration. Finding home in the Philippines When Pomeranz first arrived in the Philippines in 1983, he was astonished to hear an audience singing his lyrics word for word. From that moment, Manila became a recurring stop — and eventually, a second home.

His gentle demeanor and heartfelt delivery resonated deeply with the Filipino love for songs that tell stories. “Got to Believe in Magic,” originally written for the 1982 film Zapped!, became a phenomenon here. It found new life in the 2002 movie Got 2 Believe starring Rico Yan and Claudine Barretto, and again in the 2013 ABS-CBN teleserye performed by Juris Fernandez. Through every version, the message stayed the same — belief in love, destiny, and something greater than ourselves. For many Filipinos, it remains the soundtrack to growing up, falling in love, and finding one’s way home.

A traveler of hearts Across five decades, Pomeranz has performed on some of the world’s most iconic stages from the Hollywood Bowl, the Kennedy Center, Munich’s Olympic Stadium, and even the Kremlin. Yet nowhere does he draw energy quite like in the Philippines.

From the Folk Arts Theater and Smart Araneta Coliseum to provincial cities and community halls, his shows feel more like reunions than concerts. He sings, the crowd answers, and the line between artist and audience fades. “There’s always that moment,” he once said, “when I realize — I’m home.”

Why Filipinos keep believing Pomeranz belongs to a small group of Western balladeers - Air Supply, Dan Hill, Michael Learns to Rock, Rick Price - who found lasting kinship with Filipino audiences. While the rest of the world chases trends, Filipinos remain loyal to songs that speak simply and sincerely about love.

That’s why “King and Queen of Hearts” and “Got to Believe in Magic” never fade. They’re more than hits, they’re emotional landmarks. His music, like the Filipino spirit itself, wears its heart proudly on its sleeve.

Still believing in magic in 2025

At seventy, Pomeranz shows no sign of slowing down. Early this year, he performed in Winnipeg, Canada, followed by a charity concert in Washington, D.C. for Filipino-American Cancer Care. In July, he returned to the Philippines for a three-day engagement at KCC Convention and Event Center in Cotabato, where thousands sang along to every lyric.

He remains a steady presence on Philippine airwaves and social media, where younger artists like Morissette Amon and KZ Tand-

A NIGHT OF ORIGINAL MUSIC FROM WINSTON

by AJPress

WINSTON Raval’s lifetime of musical journeys has taken him from Manila to Honolulu and Los Angeles, where he has shared his artistry as a jazz pianist, arranger, bandleader, and musical director. He is noted for his live jazz improvisation, yet it is as a composer that he earned some of his most distinguished accolades, particularly for his contributions to Philippine cinema. In 2018, the Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino (Philippine Film Critics Group) honored him with a Lifetime Achievement Award in film music, their first in 40+ years, recognizing the music he composed for more than 21 films, for “raising the standard of film music unmatched by his peers…” and “inspiring the next generation of film scorers.”

Earlier in his career, the same group bestowed upon him and his band, The Vanishing Tribe, the Best in Film Music Award for their work in Ikaw Ay Akin (1977).

Recognition of his work in music also came in California, with lifetime achievement awards from the San Francisco Filipino-American Jazz Festival (2011), JazzPhil USA in Los Angeles (2013), and the LA-Philippine International Film Festival Reel Award (2019). The San Francisco group also recognized him as a pioneer in jazz fusion with the introduction of indigenous music and instruments to what has become known as Pinoy jazz. This bold blending of tradition and innovation was powerfully evident in Isang Munting Alamat (1978), the ethnic rock opera he composed for the gala reopening of the newly restored Manila Metropolitan Theater. Decades later, the same spirit endures in his Broadway-inspired musical Warrior (2018), which continues to carry the imprint of his deep connection to ethnic roots and cultural identity.

ingan continue to reinterpret his songs for a new generation. Even in karaoke halls, his classics still top playlists, a sign that his music has truly become part of Filipino life.

Culmination in Los Angeles: 50 years of It’s in Every One of Us

To mark his golden milestone, David Pomeranz will close the year with a special concert on November 1, 2025, at the Colony Theatre in Burbank, California. A symbolic homecoming celebrating the 50th anniversary of It’s in Every One of Us.

As he told Asian Journal, the evening will feel “like a party in someone’s home,” with several of the original musicians from the 1975 album joining him onstage. Though intimate in scale, the concert will revisit the songs that began his journey and showcase another side of his artistry, the theatrical and inspirational works that shaped his creative voice.

For Pomeranz, the title track still captures what his career has always stood for: “It’s in every one of us - to be wise, to be kind, to believe.”

The anniversary concert isn’t a farewell; it’s a quiet reminder of the same faith that has always powered his music that connection and love remain the true magic in all of us. A voice that still believes Through changing decades, David Pomeranz has never chased trends or spectacle. His gift lies in quiet honesty in melodies that tell listeners they are not alone.

When he sings, generations of Filipinos instinctively respond. Fifty years after his first album, the King of Hearts still sings about the one thing that never goes out of style - believing in love, and in the music that keeps it alive.

Event details

• What: David Pomeranz — “It’s in Every One of Us” 50th Anniversary Album LA Concert

• When: Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025; doors 6:30 p.m., show 7:30 p.m.

• Where: The Colony Theatre, 555 N. Third St., Burbank, CA 91502

• Tickets: Available on Eventbrite under Upward Spiral Entertainment Inc.https://www. eventbrite.com/e/david-pomeranz-live-in-los-angeles-50th-anniversary-album-concert-tickets-1681476574699

nite the dreams of the next generation of Filipino musicians.

The all-originals concert from his countless works – on the stage, at the movies, from his private collection – will be performed with a jazz ensemble, a string quartet, and featuring guest star vocalists: Mon David, Charmaine Clamor, Andrew

Through his countless original works—from the stage, to the screen, to the music he created simply from the heart—he now feels a deep calling to share a part of that journey with the public. This all-original concert is not only a gift of music but also his legacy to Philippine art and culture, offered with the hope that it may inspire and ig-

Bayanihan spirit shines in Glendale FilAm groups’ Parol-making workshop

GLENDALE, CA - “Bayanihan, the Filipino spirit of civic unity and cooperation, truly works— as evidenced by our successful collaboration and celebration,” said Edith M. Fuentes, president of the Filipino American Business Association of Glendale (FABAG-GLAC).

In celebration of Filipino American History Month (FAHM), three Filipino American organizations—FABAGGLAC, MoTHER Movement, and the United Architects of the Philippines Southern California Chapter (UAPSoCal)—joined forces on Saturday, October 18, 2025, to host a free community outreach workshop titled “Parol-Making and Fundamentals of Philippine Folk Dancing.”

“I am impressed. This is a wonderful event, and it brings back a lot of my childhood memories when we used to make parols before September at school and at home in the Philippines,” said Philippine Consul General Adelio Cruz, who attended the event and enjoyed crafting his own star-shaped parol. Cruz also visited the historical Fil-Am Friendship Monument nearby.

Participants were provided with materials such as bamboo sticks, rubber bands, glue, colored paper, and scissors. With attendance exceeding expectations, almost 40 parols were completed during the workshop.

A parol-making contestfollowed, with FABAG board members Fuentes, Olivia Lopez, Rose Lim, and Tutor Aura Puno guiding participants.

Afterward, attendees enjoyed a folk dance session led by past FABAG president Jo Solomonson.

UAPSoCal board member Leilanie Panyawai served as emcee and opened the program, expressing gratitude to everyone who joined. Among the dignitaries present were Consul General Adelio Cruz, Glendale Councilmember Elen Asatryan, field representatives from the offices of Congressmember Laura Friedman and Senator Maria

Bayanihan spirit shines in Glendale...

by Kristofer PurNell Philstar.com

MANILA — Expedia sees the Philippine tourist haven of Palawan gaining more attention because of the upcoming Hollywood movie “The Last Resort,” starring Daisy Ridley and Alden Ehrenreich.

The major online travel agency recently released its Unpack ’26 report, which uses real-time data from millions of daily searches across its site and app.

Portions of the report were previewed during the 2025 TravMedia Summit Asia in Singapore on October 13. The travel outlook, based on responses from 24,000 travelers across 18 countries, was presented by Expedia Group executives Lavinia Rajaram and James Marshall.

Ten locations were identified as Destinations of the Year after meeting the Smart Travel Health Check framework aligned with the World Travel and Tourism Council’s actions for sustainable tourism management.

The list also reflects increases in flight and accommodation searches on Expedia for travel during the 2024 calendar year versus 2025.

Topping the list was Big Sky in the United States, followed by Okinawa in Japan, Sardinia in Italy, Phu Quoc in Vietnam, and Savoie in France.

Completing the top 10 were Fort Walton Beach in the United States, Ucluelet in Canada, Cotswolds in the United Kingdom, San Miguel de Allende in Mexico, and Hobart in Australia.

‘Set-jetting’ trend Expedia reported that “set-jetting” — travel inspired by films and television shows — has the potential to be an $8 billion (P464 billion) industry in the United States alone.

More than half of travelers said their interest in set-jetting trips has increased, while 81% of Gen Z and millennial travelers plan their vacations based on what they’ve seen on screen.

Palawan appeared on Expedia’s Set-Jetting Forecast list, highlighting the island as the filming location of “The Last Resort.”

The movie, which wrapped filming in the Philippines earlier this year, stars Ridley as Brooke, an heiress seeking to prove herself capable of running her father’s hotel empire. She scouts for a new resort location in the Philippines.

There, she meets Ehrenreich’s Ben, an expatriate pilot who helps her discover the nation’s beauty.

“As love and duty collide, Brooke must choose between the life she’s built and the one she’s only just begun to love,” the movie’s synopsis reads.

Other upcoming projects that contributed to the Set-Jetting Forecast list include Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey” (Peloponnese, Greece), Emerald Fennell’s “Wuthering Heights” (Yorkshire, United Kingdom), the third “Avatar” film “Fire & Ash” (Wellington, New Zealand), and the live-action “Moana” (Samoa, Polynesia).